Tree the more it is beaten the more Nuts it bears and therefore good Husbands after they have beaten down the Nuts do with long Poles beat the empty boughs of the Tree and I have observed that those Trees which have grown in the streets have been full when those which have growen in the back sides have had scarce any which I could impute to nothing else but that those in the street were beaten and throwen at more then the other they blossom early before the leaves come forth and the fruit is ripe in September except St. Johns Wall-nut which ripeneth not till October The Temperature Dodonaeus is of Opinion that the fresh Nuts are cold and moist but Euchsius saith they are drying in the first degree and heating in the second the bark of the Tree doth binde and dry very much and the leaves are near of the same temperature but when the Nuts are old they are hot and dry in the â—econd degree and of thin parts and of harder digestion then when they are fresh which by reason of their sweetnesse are more pleasant and better digesting in the stomack The Signatures and Vertues Wall-nuts have the perfect Signature of the Head The outer husk or green Covering represent the Pericranium or outward skin of the skull whereon the hair groweth and therefore salt made of those husks or barks are exceeding good for wounds in the head The inner wooddy shell hath the Signature of the Skull and the little yellow skin or Peel that covereth the Kernell of the hard Meninga Pia Mater which are the thin scarfes that envelope the brain The Kernel hath the very figure of the Brain and therefore it is very profitable for the Brain and resists poysons For if the Kernel be bruiâ—ed and moystned with the quintessence of Wine and laid upon the Crown of the Head it comforts the brain and head mightily If the Peels be taken off they are thought to be good for the stomack and somewhat loosing the belly and mixt with Sugar they do nourish temperately whilest they are new but when they begin to grow old they grieve the Stomack and cause in hot bodies choler to abound and the Head-ach and are an enemy to those which have a Cough but they aâ—e lesse hurtfull to those which have colder stomacks and are said to kill the broad Worms in the stomack or belly They are reckoned in Schâ—la Salerni for one of those 〈◊〉 things which are good against poyson Allia Ruta Pyra Raphanus â—um Theriâ—câ— Nuâ—s Hac sunt A 〈…〉 tum contra mortale ventuum And true it is that two dry Wall-nuts and as many Figs and twenty leaves of Rue bruised and beaten together with two or three Coâ—â—s of salt were King Mithridates Medicine against poyson which afteâ— he had long used daily at last he sought to poyson himself but could not And no marvel for the water of green Wall-nuts taken about Midsummer being drunk two or three ounces cooleth and resisteth the Pestilence And the water of the outer Husks of Wall-nuts being not rotten distilled in September is given to drink against the Plague with a little Vinegar as a certain experiment and the juyce of the same boyled up with Honey is an excellent gâ—â—gle for â—â—re mouths the heat and inflammations in the throat or stomack Though the old Kernels are not so fit to be eaten yet they are used to heal the wounds of the sinews Gangrens and Carbuncles and being mixed with Figs and Rue they cure old Ulcers of the Breasts and other cold Imposthumes with Rue and Oyl they are good to be laid to the Quinsie The leaves with Boars grease stayeth the hair from falling and maketh it fair the like also will the green husks do used in like manner A peece of the green husk put into an hollow Tooth easeth the pains thereof Some use the green husks and sometimes the young red leaves dryed and made into powder instead of Pepper to season their meat but if some dryed Sage in Pouder be put into it it will give a seasoning and relish not to be despised of poor folks The Oyl of Wall-nuts made in such manner as Oyl of Almonds maketh smooth the hands and face and taketh away scales and scurf black and blew marks that come of blowes and bruises and taken inwardly it helpeth the Collick and expelleth Wind very effectually Besides it is far better for the Painters use to illustrate a white colour than Linseed Oyl which deadeth it and is of singular good use to be laid on gilded works The young green Nuts before they be half ripe preserved whole in Sugar are not onely a dainty Junket among other of the like nature but are good for those that have weak stomacks and defluxions thereon It is averred by some that if a Wall-nut be put into the belly of a Chicken it will cause it to be roasted a great deal the sooner The Rind of the root having the upper part scraped of being made into powder and tempered with Vinegar if it be strained two or three times till it be somewhat thin and clear and drunk liberally cureth the Ague and cleanseth the body very much CHAP. II. Of the Piony The Names THe Greeks call it 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 the Latines also Peonia and Dulcisida in Shops Pionia in English Piony or Peony and of some Chessesâ— It hath also many Bastard names as Râ—sâ— Fatuina Herba Câ—sta Hasta Regia Rosa Asinarum of some Luxaria or Luxaria Peonia because it cureth those which have the Falling-sicknesse whom most men do call Lunatici or Lunatick It is called Paonia from Paon a famous Physician who doubtless found out some of the Vertues and admired them but Glycysidâ— or Dulcisidâ— from the red grains in the Pomgranat which in Greek are called Sida with which it hath some resemblance It is also called Dactyluâ— Idaâ—â— the 〈◊〉 roots thereof being like to Dactyli Idâ—i which are certain precious stones of the form of a mans finger growing in the Isle of Candy It is likewise called Aglaophôtis or brightly-shining taking its name from the shining rednesse of the red grains or seeds which are of the colour of Scarlet of which there are many fabulous traditions but I shall forbear to mention them The Kindâ— The Sorts of Pionyes which I have met with are in number 11. 1. The male Piony 2. The Female Piony 3. Double Red Piony 4. The double white Pyony 5. The Spanish Dwarf Piony 6. Columbine leafed Pyony 7. The party coloured Piony 8. The female white Piony 9. The female yellow Piony 10. The doubtful female Piony 11. Certain single and double female Pionies that sprang with Clusâ—â—â— of the seed of the double Red which is not 〈…〉 all All these forts except the female are Plants so scarce that they are possessed but by a few and those great Lovers of Rarities in this kinde and therefore I shall trouble you onely with the description of that
layd upon the belly near the Navel it killeth worms If it be dissolved in Wine and used it helpeth the falling or shedding of the hair Though taken inwardly it be hurtful to such as have the Hemorrhoides or Piles yet being made in Powder and applyed outwardly it stayeth the bleeding of them mixed with Honey and used it taketh away blackness and spots Aloes in Powder being mixed with Myrrhe and Dragons blood and cast into putrified wounds eateth out spongious flesh without pain It must not be taken inwardly either too often or in too great a quantity for then it doth freâ— and excoriate the stomach and bowels and therefore those that are troubled with the Flux of the Womb Belly or any other bloody Flux Women with Child those that have the Hectick or burning Feaver all hot dry macerated or lean Bodies must avoid it as also those that have hot Livers and such Children as are of an hot and dry constitution especially when the season is extream hot or very cold Cinamon Mace Nutmeg Cloves Mastick and Gum Tragacanth are the best Correctors of Aloes and may be mixed with it If Aloes be taken a little before Supper it doth so much the lesse hurt and offend the stomach It is given in substance from a dram to two drams in infusion from a dram and a half to three drams Aloe Rosata which is a very safe and gentle Medicine is given from half a dram to a dram and a half to all sorts of persons before or after meat It purgeth the stomach of Choler and other offensive humours openeth stoppings is good in the Jaundice strengtheneth the stomach and is good against Surfets The same Dose may be given of washed Aloes which doth not purge so effectually as it did before but strengtheneth more Aloe is the Basiâ— of most Pills for there are but few purgative Pills which have it not as one chief Ingredient CHAP. XLIX Of Fumitory The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Capnos and Capnion quasi Fumus eò quod succus oculis inditus lachrymationem movet sicut Fumus claritatâ—m eorum efficit saith Fuschius that is it is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 which in that Language signifies smoak because the juyce of it put into the eyes doth make them water as smoak doth and clarifies or clears them which though it happily doth contrary to the nature of smoak yet I think the other Reason why it should be so called to be the better which is because being of a whitish blew Colour as smoak is it appeareth to those that behold it at a distance as if the ground were all of a smoak and hereunto agreeth Fumus Terrae and Fumaria which are the names the Latines put upon it and the English name Fumiterrâ— Fumiterrie though it be now most commonly called Fumitory The kinds The sorts commonly treated of are eight 1. Common Fumitorie 2. Fine leased Fumitory 3. Candy Fumitory 4. Yellow Fumitory 5. Indian Fumitory 6. Climing Fumitory 7. Bulbous Fumitory with a green Flower 8. Knobbed Indian Fumitory The Forme Common Fumitory is a tender sappy Herb sending forth from one square slender weak stalk and leaning downwards on all sides many branches two or three foot long with finely cut jagged leaves of a pale blewish or Sea-green colour somewhat like unto Coriander as to the form but of nothing so deep a colour At the tops of the branches stand many small Flowers as it were in a long spike one above another made like little Birds of a reddish purple Colour with whitish bellies commonly though in the Fields in Cornwall it beareth perfect white Flowers After which come small round husks containing small black seed The Root is yellow small and not very long full of juyce whilst it is green but quickly perishing with the ripe Seed The Places and Time The first groweth as well in the Corn-fields almost every where as in Gardens also The second in Spain and in the Vineyards about Mompelier The third in Candy The fourth on the Hills in Apuliae and Calabria in Naples and in Illyria also The fifth in Virginia and the back parts thereof called Canada The sixth about the hedge sides and among the bushes of the Low Countries The seaventh in the Woods of Germany The last in the West Indies They flowre in May for the most part and the Seed is ripe in August The Temperature It is hot in the first Degree and dry in the second and not cold as the vulgar conceive for its bitterness sheweth it to be hot The Vertues Fumitory also may be appropriated to that Scurvy-Disease aforementioned for it gently purgeth melancholy and salt humours from whence it ariseth as also from the impurity of the blood the Obstructions and stoppings of the Liver and Spleen which are the usuall parts that are first affected it openeth and cleanseth the Entralls and doth corroborate those parts It purgeth cholerick humours by Urine and avails in the Itch Scab Leprosie Cancer Fistulaes and such kinde of soul Diseases of the skin arising from adust humours as also in the French-Disease It is profitable in Feavers arising from Choler both yellow and black in the Jaundise and the Quartane Agues it killeth the worms and prevaileth in Chronicall Diseases arising from the stoppings of the viscerous parts and in Affects of the Hypochonders Brasavola saith that the Powder of the dryed Herb given for some time together hath cured a melancholy person The disâ—illed water cures the yellow Jaundice if three or four Ounces be drunk morning and evening for certain dayes together and availeth against the Scab Itch and such like Diseases and being constantly taken it preserveth from the Leprosie Being taken in London-treacle and Bole-Armoniack it is good in the Pestilence as a dram or two of Treacle and a scruple of Bole-armoniack mixed in two Ounces of the water and so taken Also it dissolveth congealed blood and tumours and provoketh the Termes or Courses in Women The juyce dropped into the Eys doth clear the Eys and quicken the sight the juyce also mingled with Gum-Arabick and applyed to the Eye-lids will cause that the hair that hath once been pulled off shall not grow again A decoction thereof made and the feet bathed therewith cures the Gout or boyled in Wine and so applyed it doth the like the juyce mixed with the juyce of Docks and Oxymel or Vineger cureth the Morphew being annointed therewith Also a Bath made of the same with Mallows Violets and Dock-Roots with Barley bran and Nep cureth the Scab and Itch. The juyce mingled with Oyl of Nuts and Vinegar cure maligne Scabs and the Leprosie being nointed therewith The distilled water helpeth Sores and Ulcers of the mouth being therewith washed and gargled especially if you take four Ounces of the water adding thereto one Ounce of Honey of Roses and wash the mouth therewith CHAP. L. Of Cresses The Names
four Leaves riâ—ng from a Root every one singly by themselves of about an hand breadth which are winged consisting of many small narrow Leaves cut into the middle Rib standing on each side of the stalk large below and smaller and smaller up to the top not dented or notched on the edges at all as the Male Fern is of a sad green colour and smooth on the upper side but on the under â—â—de somewhat rough by reason of some yellowish spots â—et thereon The Root is smaller then ones little finger yet long and creeping aslope whereon are certain little knags and holes as are on the tayl of the Fish Polypus The Places and Time There hath been of late dayes such a slaughter of Oaks and other Trees all over this Land that should I nominate any particular place I might thereby seem to be a deâ—eiver I shall therefore tell you in generall that it groweth as well upon old rotten Trunâ—s or stumps of Trees be it Oak Beech Hazeâ— Willow or any other as in the Woods under them and sometimes upon slated Houses and old Walls as upon a Wall and side of an House in Adderbury Church-yard and many other places That of the Oak is reckoned the best but any of the other may be used in ead thereof The Island Polypody groweth in the Island Ilua which is in the Mediteâ—raneâ—n Sea the last in India It being alwayes green and bearing neither Fâ—owâ—e nor Seed may be gathered for use at any time yet it shooteth forth green Leaves only in the Spring The two last lose their leaves in Winter and spring up a fresh again about May. The Temperature It is hot and dry in the second Degree as may be gathered from the sweetish harshness that it hath in the tast The Signature and Vertues The rough spots that are on the under sides of the leaves of Polypody as also the Knags or Exâ—rescences on each side the Roots is a sign that it is good for the Lungs and the exulcerations thereof The distilled water both of Roots and Leaves with some Sugar Candy dissolved therein is good against the Cough shortnesse of Breath and Wheeâ—ngs and thoâ—e distillations of thin Rheum upon the Lungs which cause Ptiâ—icks and oâ—tentiâ—es Consumptions The Herb it selfe taken in decoction broth or infuâ—â—on dryeth up thin humours digeâ—eth tough and thick and purgeth burnt Choâ—er and especially tough and thick flegme and thin flegme also even from the joynts and is therefore good for those that are troubled with melanchoâ—y or Quartan Agues especially if it be taken in Whey or honyed water or in Barley water or in the Broth of a Chicken with Epythymum or with Beets and Mallowes It is alâ—o good for the 〈◊〉 of the Spleen and for prickings or Stitches in the sides as also the Cholick Some use to put to it Fennel-Seeds or Annise-Seeds to correct the â—oâ—thing that it bringeth to the Stomach but it may be taken without by any person at any time and an Ounce of it may be given at a time in a Decoction if there be not Sena or some other strong purger put with it A Dram oâ— two of the Powder of the dryed Roots taken fasting in a Cup of Honyed water worketh gently and for the purposes aforesaid The distilled Water both of Roots and Leaves is much commended for the Quartane Agues to be taken for many dayes together as also against Meâ—ncholy or fearful or troublesome sleeps or dreams The fresh Roots beaâ—â—â— small or the Powder of the dryed Root mixed with Honey and applyed to any Member that hath been out of joynt and is newly set again doth much help to â—â—engthen it Applyed also to the Nose it cureth the Disease called Polypus which is a piece of flesh growing therein which in time sloppeth the passage of breath through that Nostril and it helpeth those clefts or chops that come between the Fingers or Toes Crollius saith that because it hath such rough spots on the backside of the Leaves it healeth all sorts of scabs whatsoever by Signature And here I might tell Mr. Culpepper that the Colledge of Physitians forbid not other Polypody but onely prescribe that of the Oak for the best because every Excrescence or Plant upon a Plant as Polypody commonly is doth participate of the nature of that Tree whereon it groweth And seeing that the Oak is of a more drying or purging quality then any of the other Trees it commonly growes upon therefore the Polypody of the Oaks is best but why do I answer for the learned Colledge who are more able to answer for themselves had they thought their â—â—â—ing Antagonist worth the taking notice of Creeping Oak-Fern hath been by some Apothecaries beyond the Sea mistaken for Polypody to the endangering of those that took it for it hath not that purging quality proper to Polypody but a pernicious operation Yet it is a remedy to take away hairs as Dioscorides saith if the Roots and Leaves be bruised together and applyed after sweating Matthâ—â—lus saith that the Root in Powder with a little Salt and Bran is given to â—orses for the Worms The last viz. White Oak-Fern is moderate in tast somewhat drying and may be safely used instead of the true Maidenhair CHAP. CXVI Of Whortle-Berries The Names THere be severall Sorts of Whortle-Berries whereof that with black-Berries is taken to be 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 of Theophrastus that is Vitis ex parte Idae quam vocant Phalacras 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and Vitis being both taken in a large Sense as the word Vine must also be The Latine followeth the Greek in which it is called Vitis Idaea Theophrastl and because all the rest have a resemblance to this they are all called Vites Idaea The fruits are called Vaccinia and therefore some have thought this sort to be the Vaccinia Nigra of Virgil but he putteth his Vaccinia amongst Flowers and not among fruits saying Et nigrae violae sunt â— vaccinia nigra Vitruvius Pliny indeed have a Vaccinium which was used to dye Garments which might very well be this for such a Purple Colour will the juyce hereof give if it be rightly ordered It is also called Myrtillus and by some Myrtillus Germanica because the Physitians and Apothecaries in Germany and thereabouts took them to be true Myrtle-Berries so used them till they were shewed their errour They are called Whorts and Whortle-Berries and Bill-Beries also in the parts about London The Kindes There be nine sorts of Whorts reckoned up by Authours 1. Black Whorts or Bill-Berries 2. The greater Bill-Berry 3. Hungarian black Whorts 4. Red Whorts with Box-Leaves 5. Red Whorts with longer Leaves 6. The Spanish Red Whort 7. The French Honey sweet Whorts 8. The talled red Whorts of Candy 9. The lower Candy red Whorts The Form The small Bush that beareth black Whorts or Bill-berries creepeth along upon the ground scarce rising half a yard high with divers small dark green Leaves
Saffron the kernells of Wallnuts two ounces Figs two ounces Mithâ—idate one dram and a few Sage Leaves stamped together with a sufficient quantity of Pimpernell water and made into a masse or lump and kept in a Pot for your use and thereof twelve graines given in the morning fasting preserveth from the Pestilence and expelleth it from those that are infected Infinite advantage hath been made of this commodity by those that Planted it there being no Saffron comparable to the English but now it is manured by so many that it is not so profitable as formerly CHAP. CXX Of Borage The Names IT is called by the Greeks 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Euphrosyne ab efficienda animi voluptaâ—â— from causing mirth Apulâ—â—us said that Buglossum meaning our Borage was called by them of Luca Corragâ— quod cordis affectibus medetur because it is very Cordiall which by the alteration of one letter is Borrage and from thence as is supposed came the name Borrage which is not found in any of the ancient Writers whom I can perceive to make little or no difference between it and Buglosse but rather that it is the same that was formerly so called yet we have them growing in distinct formes in our Gardens The Kinds And of Borage commonly so called I find five sorts 1. Garden Borage with blew Flowers 2. Garden Borage with white Flowers 3. Everlasting Borage 4. Small creeping Borage 5. Small wild Borage The Forme And because the first Garden Borrage is so well known I shall describe the Everlasting Borage which hath very many broad Leaves rough and hairy of a black darke green colour amongst which rise up stiffe hairy stalkes whereupon do grow faire blew Flowers ripe seed and buds for new Flowers all at once whereupon it is called Everlasting and that very properly because it lasteth both Summer and Winter and is seldom without Flowers buds ripe or unripe seed whereby it greatly increaseth The roote is very durable The Places and Time The first groweth in most Gardens and there increaseth very much after it is once sown the second and third are not so common yet found in divers Gardens of those that affect rarities the last in Germany as Lobel saith and in Naples as Columna saith and in Kent if Mr. Parkinson mistake not The fourth came to us out of the Low-Countrys and prospereth well in the Physick-Garden at Oxfora they do all Flour in the moneths of June and July except the Creeping Borage which Lobel saith flowâ—eth both in the Spring and in August and their seed doth ripen quickly after both ripe seed Flowers may at one time be gathered from many of them The Temperature The Garden kinds are temperate and accounted rather hot and moist in the first degree then cold and yet for their cordiall properties are often used amongst other cold herbs as conducing to the like effect The Vertues The Leaves Flowers and Seeds of Borage all or either of them are very Cordiall and helpe to expell sadnesse and melancholy arising without manifest cause whereof came the saying Ego Borrago gaud a semper ago I Bo rage bring allwaies Courage It helpeth also to clarify the blood is to very good purpose used in all putrid or Pestilentiall Feavers to de end the Heart and to help to reâ—st and expell the poyson or the venome of other Creatures The juice made into a Syrup prevaileth much to all the purposes aforesaid and is also put with other cooling opening and clensing herbs to open obstructions and to help the yellow Jaundise to coole and clense the blood and temper the heate and sharpnesse thereof especially with Fumitory and thereby to helpe the Itch Ring-wormes or Tetters or other spreading Scabs or Sores that arise from adust and sharp humors and for that purpose is put into the Syrupus Byzantinus which worketh to the same effect The Conserve made of the Flowers or the Flowers candyed are helping also in those causes but are chiefely used as a Cordiall and good for those that have been long sick or in a Consumption to comfort the Heart and Spirits and is thereby good for those that are troubled with often swouning or passions of the Heart The distilled Water is no lesse effectuall to all the purposes aforesaid and the eyes washed therewith helpeth the rednesse or inflamation of them The dryed Herb is almost uselesse yet the Ashes thereof boiled in Meade or Honyed water is available against Inflammations Ulcers in the mouth or Throat to wash and gargle it therewith The green Leaves and stalkes with the Flowers on them are frequently used in the summer-time to be put in Wine or Beere for the comforting the Heart and giving a better rellish thereunto Syrup made of the Juice of Borage and Sugar having some of the powder of the Heart-bone or a Hart put into it is good against swouning the Cardiack passion of the Heart against melancholly and the falling sicknesse The wild Borage is somwhat hotter and dryer and is very neere the property of Vipers Buglosse which differeth little from what hath been already said of Borage as you shall heare hereafter CHAP. CXXI Of Violets The Names THe Garden Violet is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Viola purpurea by Dioscorides and 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Viola nigra and Melanion by Theophrastus Some would have the name to come from Io whom Jove transformed into a Cow because she fed on them cheifly Others from certain Nymphes of Jonia who first gave of the Flowers to Jupiter for a presenâ—â— others think it to be derived 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 quasiâ—re aut primum prorumpere veris enim praevia est Viola because it is one of the first herbs that flowreth The Latines call it Viola Martia and Herba Violaria Heartsâ—ease which is also a kind of Violet is called in English Pansyes as also Love in idlenesse Call me to you and Three faces under a hood in Latine Viola Tricolor c of the three colours therein The Kinds There are many sorts of Violets 1. Single purple Violets 2. Single white Violets 3. Double purple Violets 4. Double white Violets 5. Upright Violets 6. Smal narrow Leafed Violets 7. Mountaine Violets with jagged Leaves 8. Yellow Violets of Virginia 9. Yorkeshire striped red Violets 10. Wild Violets 11. Garden Pansyes 12. Wild Pansyes or Hearts-ease The Forme The description of the ordinary Garden Violets being needlesse I shall set down that of the upright Violet which groweth a foot-high or neere upon with hard upright stalkes which yet bend down againe their tops having two Leaves somwhat round set at each joynt but longer and more dented about the edges then the Garden kinds at which joynts with the Leaves on both sides of the stalkes commeth forth a larger Flower and more spread open then it being more like a Pansye but of a pale purplish colour almost as sweet as the Violet as Matthiolus but without scent as Lobel saith The Names
the year which do helpe to stirr up an appetite to meat to help Obstructions of the Spleen and to provoke Urine The Broom Rape is commended by some to be as good as Asparagus taken when they are young and eaten either raw or boyled but they are somewhat bitter The decoction thereof in wine is thought to be as effectuall to avoid the stone in the Kidnies and Bladder and to provoke Urine as the Broom it self The juyce thereof is Singular good to cure as well green wounds as old and filthy sores and malignant Ulcers Being put into oyle Olive and set in the Sun for certain dayes it taketh away all Spots Lentiles Freckles Pimples Wheales and Pushes from the face or any part of the body being anointed therewith All the lesser sorts have the same qualities and may be conducible to the same diseases but some stronger some weaker But the most effectuall of all the Brooms is the Spanish kind which hath not onely all the properties aforesaid very exactly but others also It purgeth both upwards and downwards especially the seed which being taken to the quantity of a dram in Meade or honyed water purgeth by vomit as Hellebore doth yea without trouble or danger An Oxymel or Syrupe made of the Flowers Seed and Vinegar often used breaketh healeth all Impostumes of the Spleen by causing the corrupt matter to void it self and draweth humors from the Joynts CHAP. CXCIV Of the Ash-Tree The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and of some 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 in Latin Fraxinus quia facilè frangiâ—ur because the boughs of it are easily broken The seed or rather the inner kernel therof is called Lingua Avis and Lingua Passerina from the form thereof being like unto a Birds Tongue in English Ash-Keyes and of some Kitkeyes and Peter keyes The Tree is called the Ash because its barke is of the colour of Ashes The wild Ash which I here add because of its name is very probable to be the 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 or Fraxinus montana of Theophrastus which Pliny calleth Ornus of some Orneoglossum Fraxinus sylvestris Fraxinea arbor Fraxinus aucuparia because Boyes and Fowlers use the Berries as Baites to catch Blackbirds Thrushes c. In the English the Wild Ash but more generally Traxinus bubula the Quicken-Tree The Kinds There be no more sorts then what I have already mentioned viz. 1. The Common great Ash 2. The wild Ash or Quicken-tree The Forme The Ash commonly riseth up with a straight body sometimes to a very great thickness but commonly of a middle sise and is covered with a smooth barke of a grayish colour spreading reasonable wel and bearing long winged Leavs consisting of others which stand by couples one over against another the uttermost onely being excepted which standeth alone all which are long narrow gentle of a pale green colour and dented about the Edges at sundry joynts with the Leaves cometh forth a bunch of flowers and after them a bunch of seeds commonly called keyes tasting somewhat strong and hot in the mouth there be sometimes small round Balls called Apples growing therein but not in every place The timber of it contrary to the branches is strong and tough and therefore is much used in Coaches Carts Ploughes and other instruments of Husbandry but especially to make Pikes for Souldiers The Places and Times The Ash for its usefulnesse both for Timber and Firewood is planted generally throughout the whole Land both in high and Low grounds yet experience tells us that it thriveth best in moist low grounds and by meddow sides The Quicken-Tree groweth in the Woods by High-Gate and in divers other parts And particularly amongst Trees in the walk between Shaford and Gorehambery The Balles or Apples of the Ash come forth in the end of Winter the leaves and flowers of both in the Spring and the seed and fruit is ripe in September The Temperature The Leaves and Bark of the Ash-Tree are dry and moderately hot the seed is hot and dry in the second degree The Vertues There is scarce any part about the Ash but is good for the Dropsy The Leaves and Bark with the tender Crops boiled in Wine and drunk are excellent for it for they purge Water and so doth the Water that is distilled from the Leaves Barke or Seed The young Rootes also boiled in Ale and a draught thereof drunk morning and evening is profitable for the same The said Leaves and Bark boiled in Wine and drunk do likewise open and comfort the Lâ—ver and Spleene and ease the paines and Stitches of the sides and so will they do being boiled in Oyle and applyed to them outwardly and being used in the same manner it is singular good against the biting of the Viper Adder or any other venemous beast to which purpose the seed may also be drunk in Wine according to that Verse of Serenus Fraxineum semen cum Bacchi rore bâ—bendum est The Leaves and Barke are reported to stop the Belly and being boiled with Vinegar and Water do stay Vomiting if they be laid upon the Stomack Three or foure Leaves taken in Wine every morning constantly doth make those leane which are fat and keepeth them from grossnesse which begin to wax fat and so doth the distilled Water of the Keyes a small quantity taken every morning The Decoction of the Leaves in White Wine helpeth to break the Stone and expell it and cureth the Jaundise The seeds having their Huskes taken off prevaile against Stitcâ—â—s and paines in the sides proceeding of Wind and the Stone by provoking Urine They are commended also for the Rickets to increase naturall seed to stir up bodily lust especially being powdered with Nutmegs and drunk The Lye which is made of the ashes of the barke cureth those Heads which are Leprous Scabby or Scal'd being bathed therewith The Leaves of the Wild Ash boiled in Wine are good against the paines in the sides the stoppings of the Liver and asswageth the bellies of those which have the Tympany or Dropsy CHAP. CLXXXXV Of the Sassafras or Ague-Tree The Names THe use of this Ingredient is of late Invention therefore it were in vaine to seek for the Greek name It is called in Latine Sassafras which is also the French and Spanish name but why they called it so is unknown yet the French were the first that discovered the Vertues of it to the Christian world For at their being neere the Florida they got Agues and Swellings in their Legges which as I conceive was the Dropsy and other diseases by lying on the ground and intemperate dyet which they used for which they could get no cure untill they had learned the use of this Tree from the Natives who call it Pavame and Winanke All other Countryes call it Sassafras and amongst them the English who call it also the Ague-Tree from its Vertue in healing the Ague There is hereof but one kind and therefore
white within and of a good savour White Saxâ—frage groweth with divers round faint or yellowish greene Leaves but grayish underneath spread upon the ground unevenly dented about the edges and somwhat hairy every one upon a little footstalke from whence riseth up a round brownish hairy greene stalke about a foot-high with a few such like round Leaves as grow below but smaller somwhat branched at the top whereon stand pretty large white flowers of five Leaves a peece with some yellow Threds in the middle standing in a long crested brownish greene husk which being past there ariseth somtimes a round hard head biforked at the top wherein is contained small blackish seed the Root is compact of a number of black strings whereunto are fastned many small reddish graines or round rootes about the bignesse of Pepper-cornes which are used in Medicine and called by the Apothecaries white Saxifrage seed and is that which is truly meant by though not so truly said of it Golden Saxifrage is most like unto the before described yet it differeth therefrom in that the Leaves are not hairy but somwhat thicker and of a darker greene colour amongst which rise up Stalkes in handfull high with such Leaves on them as grow below two at a Joynt but three at the top of all whereas also at the Joynts do come forth very small gold yellow flowers not easily observed and seldome seen with them because they fall away so quickly after which come small round heads wherein is contained small round reddish seed the Root is compâ—â—ed of a number of small strings or Fibres Burnet Saxifrage groweth up with divers stalkes of winged Leaves set one against another each being somewhat broad and a little pointed and dented about the edges of a sad greene colour at the tops of the stalkes stand 〈…〉 s of white flowers after which comes small and blackish seed The root is long and whitish The Places and Time The first groweth almost in every Medow and therefore it is called Medow Parsly yet it somtimes growes in up and ground the second was found by Mr. Goodyer on a boggy ground below the red Well of Welling borough in Norhamptonshire the third by Lobel between Chipnam and Marleborough in the High-way between London and Bristow on a Chalky Hill the fourth groweth very pâ—entifully in a feild immediately below the Abby Orchard at St. Albons anâ— in many other places the silt in moist and marish places about Bath and Wâ—lles and in the Moores by Boston and Wisbich in Lincolneshire the sixth seventh and eâ—ght grow in divers Meadows and Pastures-grounds of this Land the last groweth upon barren hills and sometimes upon Walls The first flowreth from the beginning of May to the end of August the second and third â—omwhat later the fourth in April or May at the furthest when it is gathered for that which is called the seed as well as to distill for it perisheth soon after the fifth in March and April the rest about July and their Seed is ripe in August The Temperature All the aforementioned sorts are hot and dry in the third degree except the Golden Saxifrage which is cold of temperature as the tast declareth The Vertues and Signature The seeds and rootes of Saxifrage or Medow Parsly boiled in White-Wine and the dâ—â—oction drunk breaketh the Stone in the Bladder and Kidnâ—es hel 〈…〉 the strangury and cauâ—eth one to make Water freely which also bringeth down Womens Courses and expelleth the Secondine and dead Child The root dryed and maâ—e into Powder and halfe a dram or a dram taken with Sugar comfoâ—teth and warmeth the Stomack cureth the gnawâ—ngs and griping paines oâ— the belly caleth the Cholick also and expelleth Wind. The Cheshire Women put it amongst the Râ—mnes that they put into their Cheese as a Country-man of theirs reporteth The distilled Water is much in use with Nurses to give unto their Children against the stopping of their Urine and to ease the griping paines in their belly which they usually calâ— the Frets It is used outwardly in Bathes and Fomentations to provoke Urine and to ease the paines of the Belly proceeding from Wind. The seed or rather the root of the white Saxifrage cureth the Stone by signature as the learned Crâ—llius hath observed and is singular good against the strangury and stoppings of the Kidneys and Bladder the Powder of them being drunk in Wine or the decoction made of them The distilled Water of the whole herb rootes and flowers which is as effectuall in a manner is familiarly taken by those that have need thereof for any of the purposes aforesaid as also to clense the Stomack and Lungs from tough and thick Phlegme that troubleth it and causeth it more easily to be avoided It is not probable that the Golden Saxifrage hath any operation upon the Stone because of its insipide tast unlesse it be by a specifick Vertue yet I mentioned it because it is esteemed as a rarity The Burnet Saxifrages have the same properties that the others have both in provoking Urine and easing the paines thereof as also in expelling Wind and helping the Cholick the roots or seed being used in Powder decoction or any other way which are likewise effectuall for the windy paines of the Mother to procure Womens Courses to break and avoid the stone in the Kidneys and to digest cold viscous and tough Phlegme in the Stomack and is an especiall remedy against all kind of Venom The rootes hereof dryed are as hot as Pepper and may be used for the same being much more wholesome as Tragus saith The same in Powder with the Powder of the Seeds and Sugar purgeth the braine helpeth the Tooth-ach restoreth lost speech and is good for Convulsions Cramps Apoplexies and cold feavers and so is the distilled water wherein Castoreum hath been boiled which is profitable also for the Palsy and many other cold griefes The same drunk with wine and Vinegar cureth the Plague and being holden or chewed in the mouth it preserveth from the Infection when the aire is corrupted The seed made into Comfits like unto those of Caraway are effectuall for all the purposes aforesaid and so is the distilled water sweetned with Sugar though not in so powerfull a manner as the former which water also beautifieth the face by cleansing it from all Spots and Freckels and leaving a good colour The juyce of the Leaves doth the same and being dropped into the grievous wounds of the Head or any other place dryeth up the moisture and healeth them quickly The distilled water alone or with Vinegar being put into the eyes cleareth the sight exceedingly I conceive I have given to every sort its due properties notwithstanding I find all or most of them attributed to Saxifrage in general and no doubt when one sort is not to be had the other may serve as substitutes they being promiscuously used by divers CHAP. CCXIII. Of Dropwort The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉
Scabs if the places affected be often rubbed therewith Pure Oyle that is heated in an Apple of Coloquinda after the seeds are taken out being dropped into the Eares taketh away the paine and noise and killeth the Wormes in them And is said to make the hair black which was not so before and to keep it from falling as also from growing ray A Bath made of Coloquintida and the feet and other parts fomented bringeth down the Courses in Women The juyce boiled with hogs-grease and applyed to the Hip-Gout easeth the Sciatica The Dose in powder is from five graines to ten or fifteen but it is more safe to take it for all the purposes aforesaid in a Glister made after this manner Take of the Pulp of Coloquintida two drams Camomile flowers an handfull Anniseed Cumminseed of each halfe an Ounce make hereof a decoction in faire Water and in a pint of it being strained dissolve Honey of Roses and Oyle of Camomile of each three or foure Ounces Now if any one should aske how can a Glyster purge the whole Body I answer that the Glyster moistning the whole Colon doth by the twigs of the Arteries draw noisome humours from the whole Trunk The seeds will kill Ratts and Mice who delight to feed upon them and the decoction with Wormewood sprinkled in a House that is troubled with Fleaâ— doth utterly destroy them CHAP. CLXVII Of Bind-weed The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 to distinguish it from the Kidney-Beans which is called 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Smilax hortensis In Latine also Smilax levis from a Maid of that name who pining away for the love of Crocus was turned into this flower according to that verse of Ovid and he into Saffron Et Crocum in parves versum cum Smilace flores It is called also Convâ—lvalâ—s and Volubilis quia crebrâ revolutione vicinos fructices et herbas impliceâ— because it rouleth or windeth it selfe about whatsoever is next it and for the same reason it is called Funis arborum but Campanella is given to it because it hath a flower like a little Bell. There is one cheife sort hereof called of some Campana Laxâ—ra or Campana caruleâ— of others Convolvulus Caeruleus Major five Indicus and Flâ—s Noctis because its cheifest beauty is in the Evening Night and Morning of some Nil Avâ—eeunae another is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Helxine Cissampelos ab 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 trahere vel harere and 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 quasi Vitâ—alis five Hedera Vitiâ—ea because this Helxine should be known from Pellitory called also Helxine this most commonly growing in Vineyards creeping up upon the Vines with a Leafe like lvy it is called also Malacocissos quasi mollis hedera Orobanche Ervania Convolvulus niger c In English Bindweed With-wind and of some Divelsgut The Kinds To this smooth kind of Bindweed which is here to be understood for of the Prickly kind we shall treat elsewhere there may be referred these fifteene sorts 1. The greater blew Bind-weed or Bell-flower 2. The greater purple Bindweed with cornered Leaves 3. The American Bind-weed 4. The Arabian oâ— Egyptian Bind-weed 5. The blew Bell flower of Virginia 6. Mallow leased Bind-weed 7. The common small Bind-weed 8. Lavander leafed Bind-weed 9. Small purple Bind-weed 10. The African Bind-weed 11. The least African Bind-weed 12. The blew Spanish Bindweed 13. Black Bindweed 14. Branched black Bind-weed of Candy 15. Small black Bindweed The Form The greater blew Bind-weed or Bell flower though but a Weed as the name imports is taken into Gardens for the goodlynesse thereof where it riseth with many long and winding branches climbing and winding it selfe contrary to the course of the Sun upon any thing of substance that is neer it It hath many great faire round Leaves pointed at the end somewhat like a Violet Leafe in shape but much greater of a sad greene colour the flowers which come forth at the joynts of the branches where the Leaves are â—et on pretty long footstalkes two or three together are at first long somwhat like a finger and of a paâ—e whitish blew colour but afterwards they become broad like Bells of a deepe a â—ure tending to purple very gâ—orioâ—s to behold the flowers being past the stalkes whereon they stood bend downwards sending foâ—th husks with three or four black seeds a peece of the bignesse of a Tare or thereabouts the rootes are sâ—â—ingy and perish every where at the first approach of Winter The Places and Times Though the two first came to us out of Italy yet they are conceived to be naturall only to the East Indies The name of the third teâ—â—ifieth whence it came and so doth those of the fourth fift tenth eleaventh twelveth and fourteenth the sixth is found in many places of Spaine the seaventh and ninth in sundry Countryes of this Land as the eighth likewise is about Dunmow in Essex the thirteenth is that which is too common in every field and garden and the last groweth about Drayton neere Portsmouth They flower towards the latter end of Summer especially the greater sorts and therefore their seed is seldome perfected with us The Temperature The Bind-weeds are most of them hot and dry in the first or second degree The Signature and Vertues The most renowned Crollius in his Book of Signatures recordeth that Bind-weed or With-wind growing in the Corne by its turning and winding doth very much resemble the turnings and windings of the Guts and that therefore the dâ—coction thereof made in White Wine is a very singular remedy for those that are afflicted with the Collick purging and voiding sorth raw thick Phlegmatick and Melancholick humours and killing and driving sorth both flat and long Wormes out of the Belly yet not without some trouble to the Stomack which somtimes causeth Vomitings The Mallow Leafed Bind-weed as Clusius saith is used in Portugal as an herb of singular effect to heale all sores or wounds The Leaves of the black Bind-weed called Helxine Cissampelos stamped and streined and the juice drunken doth also loosen and open the belly exceedingly and so do the Leaves and Herb in Powder if it be drunk in Wine or any other Liquor The Leaves being bruised and laid to hard tumors and Knots in the Flesh dissolveth and consumeth them as Galen saith It is said likewise that if those places which you would have to be void of Haire be anointed with the juice hereof presently after the Haire is plucked up by the Rootes it will not suffer it to grow there any more Some of the greater sorts as also that with Leaves like Lavander where they naturally grow are rather a Plague then a pleasure to whatsoever groweth with it in the feildes yet the beauty of their flowers hath caused them to be received into Gardens where they are very delightfull to the Eyes of those which love to feast themselves even with the varieties of those things which the
of them are in Temperature dry little or nothing hot but astringent and are accounted as profitable for the paines of the head as any plant that is except Betony They are excellent good against any Joynt-aches as the Palâ—y and paines of the Sinews as theit names do import The decoction of the roots are good for the stone in the Kidneys and Bladder the juyce of the leaves for members that are loose and out of joynt or inward parts that are hurt râ—nt or broken A drachm and a half of the dryed roots of field Primrose gathered in the Autumne purgeth by Vomit very forcibly but safely waterish humouâ—s choler and flegme in such manner as Asara bacca doth A conserve made with the flowers of Cowslips and Sugar prevaileth wonderfully against the Palsy Convulsions Cramps and all diseases of the Sinews if the quantity of a Nutrneg be taken every morning An oyntment made of the leaves and Hogs grease healeth wounds and taketh away Spots Wrinkles and Sunburning and so doth the distilled water of the flowers As divers Ladies Gentlewomen and she Cittizens whether wives or widdows know well enough The roots of Primrose stamped and strained and the juyce snifted into the Nose with a quill or such like purgeth the brain and qualifieth the pain of the Megrim An Oyntment made with the Juice of Cowslips and oyl of Linseed cureth all scaldings and burnings with fire water or otherwise The flowers of Primt 〈…〉 sodden in Vinegar and applyed do heal the Kings Evil healeth also the Almonds of the Ears and Palate if you Gargarize the party with the decoction thereof The leaves and flowers of Primroses boyled in Wine and drunk are good against all diseases of the Breast and Lungs and will draw any thorn splinter or bone out of the flesh The Bears eares according to their name Sanicle are no lesse powerful for healing then the former as also for the Palsy and Rupture called Enterocele if for some reasonable space it be put in drinks or boyled by it self The roots also of Bears-ears are in great request amongst those that use to hunt after Goats and Robucks upon the Alpes and high mountains and for the strengthening of the head then when they passe by fearful precipices and steep places in following their game that Giddinesse and swimming of the brain may not seise upon them CHAP. XII Of the Lilly of the Vally The Names THe Latines have named it Lilium Convallium Gesner doth think it to be Callionymum It is called in English Lilly of the Vally or the Convall Lilly May Lillies Wood Lillies and in some places Liriconfancy or Lilly Confancy Fuschius saith that Ephemerum non Lethale and Lilium Convallium are the same The Kinds Of this Lilly I find but two sorts 1. Lilly-Convally with white flowers 2. Lilly-Convally with red flowers The Forme The Lilly of the Valley hath leaves somewhat like unto other white Lillies or rather like unto the leaves of the smallest water Plantain among which doth a slender and small stalk spring up in the top of which grow forth little small white flowers like little bells with turned edges and of a pleasant smell which being past there come small red berries much like the berries of Asparagus wherein the seed is contained The root is small and slender creeping farre abroad in the ground The Place and Time It groweth plentifully upon Hamstead-heath four miles from London near to Lee in Essex and on Bushy heath thirteen miles from London in Bagly wood which is two or three miles from Oxford not far from the way to Abingdon and many other places in vallies and on the sides of hills For its great commodity and beauty it is brought and planted in Gardens where it prospereth best if it be set in a moist ground and shadowy place It floureth in May and the fruit is ripe in September The Temperature and Vertues The Lillies of the Valley are hot and dry of Temperature according to Gerrard and Sennertus yet Hill in his Art of Gardening saith that they are cold and moist I assent rather to the former opinion though there may be some reason given for the later also The flowers be more effectual then the Herb and the root passeth the flowers in vertue It cureth the Apoplexy by Signature for as that disease is caused by the dropping of humours into the principall Ventricles of the brain so the flowers of this Lilly hanging on the plants as if they were drops are of wonderful use herein if they be distilled with Wine and the quantity of a spoonfull thereof drunk and so it restoreth speech to them that have the dumb Palsy And is good against the Gout comforteth the heart and Vitall Spirits strengthens the brain recrutes a weak memory and makes it strong again The distilled water dropped into the Eyes helps inflammations there is also that infirmity which is called the Pin and Web. The flowers steeped in New Wine and drunk doth help those which are pained with a trembling of the heart or other members it stops the passages of the Leprosy beginning that the same spread no further abroad Also it doth take away the scabbe and ring-Worm anointed thereupon and the sooner if you wash them sundry times with the water The water also asswageth the swellings of the stingings of Bees and Wasps if it be applyed to the part Take the flowers and steep them in New Wine for the space of a moneth which being finished take them out again and distill the wine five times over in a Limbeck This wine is more precious then Gold for if any one that is troubled with the Apoplexy drink thereof with six grains of Pepper and a little Lavander water they shall not need to fear it that moneth It ceaseth the Cholick it comforteth the brain and helpeth the Impostume in the hinder part thereof Six ounces of the water of the flowers helpeth those that are poysoned or bit with a mad Dog and being drunk fourty daies it doth away the falling Scknesse The same water drunk helpeth the Strangury the pricking about the heart and inflammation of the Liver and stayeth excessive Menstrues Gerrard saith That a Glasse being filled with the flowers of May Lillies and set in an Ant-hill with the mouth close stopped for a months space and then taken out you shall find a Liquor in the Glasse which being outwardly applyed helps the Gout very much CHAP. XIII Of Misselto The Names THe last thing that I shall treat of as appropriated to tâ—e diseases of the Brain as the Falling Sicknesse Apoplexy â—alsy c. is Misselto which is called by Dioscorides and so is the Birdlime made thereof but Theophrastus calls it who saith also that in Eubaa it is called Stelis and in Arcadia Hyphear In Latine it is called Viscus and Viscum and so is also the Birdlime made of the Berries Ion the Poet call it Sâ—dor Quercus Because it groweth on Trees from their own superfluous
Rose 11. The double Cinamon Roâ—e 12. The â—g antine or sweet Bryer 13. The Bryer Roâ—e or Hep-Tree 14. The Burner Rose All which I shall as near as I can wrap up into one generall Description by which the whole Family may be distinguished The Forme The Rose hath long stalks of a wooddy substance set or armed for the most part with divers sharp prickles the branches whereof are likewise full of prickles whereon do commonly grow leaves consisting of five parts set upon a middle Rib by couples tâ—e odd one standing at the point of the same every one of them somewhat snipt about the edges â—omewhat rough and of an over-worn green colour from the bosom whereof shoot out pretty big foot-stalks whereon do grow very fair flowers some single some double â—ome white some red some damask some yellow c. for the most part of a very sweet smell having in the middle a few yellow threds or chives which being past there succeedeth a long fruit green at the first red when it is ripe and stuffed with a downy choaking matter wherein is contained Seed as hard as stones The Root is long tough and of a wooddy substance The Places and Time All these sorts of Roses or most of them and perhaps some besides are in the Physick Garden at Oxford and in several Gardens about London The double white Rose doth grow wiâ—d in many hedges of Lancashire in great abundance They flower one or other of them from the end of May till the end of August If the superfluous branches and tops be cut away at the end of their flowring they will sometimes if the Winter be calm flower again in October and after The Temperature Both the white and red Roses are cooling and drying yet the white is taken to exceed the red in both those properties but is â—eldom used inwardly in any Medicine The Red as Galen saith hath a watery substance in it and a warm joyned with two other qualities that is an astringent and a bitter The yellow Chives or threds in the middle as also the nails which when any Syrup or Conserve is to be made are to be cut away do binde more then the Rose it self and are more drying also Mesue sheweth that the Rose is cold in the first Degree and dry in the second compounded of divers parts or substances which yet may be separated namely a watery mean substance and an earthly drying an airy substance likewise sweet and aromatical and an hot also whereof cometh the bitterness the redness perfection and form The bitterness in the Roses when they are fresh especially the juyce purgeth Choler and watry humours but being dryed aâ—d that heat that caused the bitterness being consumed they have a stopping and astringent power Those also that are not full blown do both cool and bind more then those that are full blown and the white Roses more then the red The Vertues The Decoction of Red Roses made with Wine and used is very good for the Head-ach and pains in the Eyes Ears Throat and Gums the fundament also the lower Bowels and the Matrix being bathed or put unto them The same Decoction with the Roses remaining in them is profitably applyed to the Region of the heart to ease the Inflammation therein as also St. Anthonies fire and other Diseases of the stomack Being dryed and beaten to Powder and taken in steeled Wine or water it doth help to stay Womens Courses they serve also for the Eyes being mixed with such other Medicines that serve for that purpose and are sometimes put into those Compositions that are called Anthera The yellow Threds in the middest of the Red Roses especially being powdered and drunk in the distilled water of Quinces stayeth the abundance of Womens Courses and doth wonderfully stay and help Defluxions of Rheum upon the Gums and Teeth and preserveth them from corruption and fasteneth them being loose if they be washed and gargled therewith and some Vineger of Squills added thereunto The heads with Seed being used in Powder or in a Decoction stayeth the Lask and the spitting of blood Red Rose-water being cooling and cordial refreshing and quickning the weak and faint spirits is used either in meats or broths as also to wash the Temples to smell to at the Note or to smell the sweet vapour thereof out of a perfuming Pot or cast on a hot Fireshovel It is also of much good use against the redness and Inflammation of the Eyes to bath them therewith and the Temples of the Head against pain and ach for which purpose Vineger of Roses also is of very good use and to procure rest and sleep if some of it and Rose-water together be smelled unto or if a peece of Red-Rose Cake moistened therewith be cut fit for the Head and heated between a double folded Cloth with a little beaten Nutmeg and Poppy-Seed strewed on the side that must lie next to the Forehead and Temples and bound so thereto for all night The Syrup of Damask-Roses is both simple and compound and made with Agarick The simple solutive Syrup is a familiar safe gentle and easie Medicine purging Choler taken from one ounce to three or four The Syrup with Agarick is more strong and effectual for one ounce thereof will open the Body more then three of the other and worketh as much on Flegm as Choler The Compound Syrup with Hellebore is more forcible in working upon melancholick humours and available against the Itch Tetters c. and the French Disease Also Honey of Roses solutive is made of the same infusion that the Syrup is and worketh the same effect both in opening and purging but is oftner given to Phlegmatick then cholerick persons and is more used in Clysters then in Potions as the Syrup made with Sugar is The Conserve and preserved leaves of these Roses are also operative in gently opening the Belly The simple water of the Damask Roses is much used for fumes to sweeten things as also to put into Pyes and Broths c. as the dryed Leaves thereof to make sweet Powders and fill sweet Bags but are seldom used in Physick although they have some purging quality The wild Roses are few or none of them used in Physick yet are generally held to come near the nature of the manured Roses The fruit of the wild Bryar which are called Heps being throughly ripe and made into a Conserve with Sugar besides the pleasantness of the taste doth gently bind the belly and stay the defluxions from the head upon the stomach drying up the moysture thereof and helping digestion The Pulp of the Heps dryed into a hard consistence like to the juyce of Liquorice or so dryed that it may be made into Powder and taken in drink stayeth speedily whites in Women The Bryar-Ball is often used being made into Powder and drunk to break the stone to provoke Urine when it is stopped and to ease and help the Cholick CHAP. XX. Of
cut-in on the edges and of a strong sweet scent growing some near the ground and some by couples upon stalks The Flowers grow at certain distances with two small Leaves at the Joynts under them somewhat like unto the Flowers of Sage but smaller and of a very whitish or black blew Colour the Seed is brownish and somewhat flat or not so round as the wild the Roots are blackish and spread not far and perish after the Seed-time it is most usuall to save it for the Seed seldom riseth of its own shedding The Place and Time The first is planted only in Gardens and so is the second in the Western parts of Europe both on this side and beyond the Alps by the judgement of the best Authours The third was brought by Paludanus into these parts out of Syria The fourth is wilde in many places of Germany The fifth is wilde in our Country upon dry banks almost every where and by the way sides The sixth Clusius first found in the Meadows near Sopronium in Hungary The seventh was sent out of Italy and it is likely is originally of that Country The eighth grew with Clusius of the Seed he received out of Spain but yet as he saith he found it likewise near the riding place at Greenwich The ninth groweth in Hungary almost every where in their Vineyards and by the way sides The tenth grew of the Seed which was sent out of Candy The eleventh both at Mompelâ—er and in Candy The twelfth throughout Hungary in great plenty and in Austria and in many other places The last as Dioscorides saith on Mount Ida in Phrygia and Messenia but of late dayes gathered from some of the Hills of Greece and Illyria that are near the Sea I have seen Colus Jovis c. Jupiters distaffe and the Aethiopian Clary grow both in the Physick Garden at Oxford and that at Westminster The Temperature and Vertues Clary is hot and dry in the third Degree The Seed thereof but especially the wilde sort called Oculus Christ of its effects from helping the Diseases of the Eys is used to be put into the Eys to clear them from any Moats or other such like things as are gotten within the Lids to offend them as also to cleanse them of all filthy and putrified matters wherewith the Eys are wont to be infested and to take away white and red spots out of them If the Seed be finely powdered searsed and mixed with Honey and applyed to the Eys it taketh away the dimness of them The mucilage of the Seed of either sort made with water and applyed to Tumours or Swellings disperseth and taketh them away and also draweth forth Splinters Thorns or other things gotten into the flesh The Leaves used with Vineger either by it self or with a little Honey doth help hot Inflammations as also Biles Felons and hot Inflammations gathered by their pains if it be applyed before they are grown too great The Powder of the dryed Leaves put into the Nose provoketh sneesing and thereby purgeth the Head and Brains of much Rheum and corruption It provoketh to Venery either the Seed or Leaves taken in Wine It is in much use to help to strengthen the Reins either used by it self or with other Herbs that conduce to the same effect and in Tansies often or the fresh Leaves fryed in Butter being first dipped in a Batter of Flower Eggs and a little Milk served as a dish to the Table is not unpleasant to any but especially profitable to those Men or Women that have weak backs It is used in Italy to be given for Women that are batten through a cold and moyst disposition to heat and dry up that moysture and to help them to be fruitful it helpeth the Stomack oppressed with cold flegme and purgeth the Head of Rheum and much corruption but the over-much use hereof offendeth the Head and is hurtful for the Brain and memory It bringeth down Womens desired sickness and expelleth the Secondine or after-birth Yellow Clary or Jupiters Distaffe is hot and drying and the juyce of it is of speciall good use to cleanse and heal foul Ulcers The Aethiopian Clary is commended for the roughness of the Throat and to help to expectorate the rotten and purulent matter in the Plurisie or in other Coughs either the Decoction of the Root drunk or made into an Electuary with Honey Dioscorides saith also that it is good for those which are troubled with the Sciatica The Leaves of wild Clary are good to be put into Pottage and Broth amongst other Herbs for they scatter congealed blood warm the stomack and help the dimness of the Eyes CHAP. XXIV Of Hawk-weed The Names THis is the last Plant that I shall treat of as appropriated to the Eyes and it is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 of 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Accipiter an Hawk because Hawks are said to sharpen their Eyes with the Juyce of this Herb and for the same Reason it is called Hawk-weed in English In Latine it is called Hieracium and Accipitrina Gaza calleth it Porcellia It is called also Lampuca and by some Hypochaeris and Hyoseris The Kinds Parkinson who thinketh that such a multitude of Varieties in form pertaining to one Herb is not to be found again in Rerum natura divideth the Hawk-weeds into nine Ranks which with the particulars comprehended under every one of them would if only named make this Chapter extend its limits I shall content my self only with those I find mentioned in the Phytologia Britannica which I conceive to be the usuallest sorts growing within these Dominions and they are 1. Rough Hawk-weed or yellow Succory for all of them are numbered amongst the Succories by some 2. Dandelyon Hawk-weed 3. Succory Hawk-weed 4. Endive Hawk-weed 5. Rough Mountain Hawk-weed 6. Long rooted Hawk-weed 7. Great Hawk-weed 8. Hares Lettice or little Hawk-weed yellow Devills bit 9. Little Mountain Hawk-weed 10. Black Hawk-weed with more cut Leaves The Forme Hawk-weed hath divers Leaves of no great size lying on the ground much rent or torn on the sides into many gashes somewhat like unto Dandelyon from among which ariseth a hollow rough stalk of about half a yard or two foot high at the most that ever I saw oranched from the middle upward wherein are set at every Joynt â—esser Leaves but not so much indented as the former bearing at their top sundry pale yellow Flowers consisting of many small narrow Leaves broad pointed and nicked in at the ends set in a double Roe or more the â—â—er most being larger then the inner which form most of the Hawk-weeds do hold which turn into Down and with the small brownish Seeds is blown away with the winde The Root is long and white with many small fibres thereat The whole Plant is full of bitter milk The Places and Time The kind of Herbs do grow in untilled places near unto the borders of Corn-fields in Meadows High-wayes Woods Mountains and
Hilly places and many times near unto the brinks of Ditches They flower for the most part all the Summer long some sooner and others later The Temperature The kinds of Hawkeweed are cold and dry and somewhat binding The Signatures and Vertues Hawkeweed Argemoné which I touched when I spake of the Poppies Marigolds Anemonies Scabious and wild Tansy which I shall have more occasion to mention hereafter do cure the Eyes by Signatures as they say who have studied them and indeed they are all of them very good for the preserving and recovery of the sight by removing the many diseases which afflict that part more then any other because it is more tender and more imployed being the Organ of the most busied Sense to those that have it The Juice of Hawkeweed being mingled with the milk of a Woman and dropped into the â—yes is singular good for all defects and diseases of the Eyes and so is the diâ—â—led Water used in the same manner It is also used with good successe in fretting or creeping ulcers especially in the beginning The green herb bruised and with a little Salt applyed to any place burnt with fire before blisters do arise helpeth them as also Inflammations St. Anthonies fire and all Pushes and Eruptions Heat and Salt Phlegme The same applyed with Meal and fair Water in manner of a Pultis to any place affected with Convulsions and the Cramp or such as are out of Joynt doth give ease and help the Juice thereof in wine helpeth digestion discusseth Wind hindereth Crudities abiding in the Stomach and helpeth the difficulty of making water the biting of Venemous Serpents and Sting of the Scorpion if the herb be also outwardly applyed to the place and helpeth all other Poysons except that of Cerussa or those that hurt the Bladder or kill by strangling A Scruple of the dryed Juice given in Wine and Vinegar is profitable for those that have the Dropsie The Decoction of the herb taken with Honey digesteth thin Phlegme in the Chest or Lungs and with Hysop helpeth the Cough Being boyled in Wine with a like quantity of wild Succory and taken it helpeth the wind Cholick and hardnesse of the Spleen it procureth rest and sleep hindereth Venery and Venereous Dreams cooleth heats purgeth the Stomach encreaseth blood and helpeth the Diseases of the Reins and Bladder The distilled water is of good use in many of the diseases aforesaid besides those of the Eyes and the face washed therewith cleanseth the skin and taketh away freckles and spots the Morphew and other blemishes in the skin and helpeth to take away the wrinckles in the face also The Juice of the Rough Dande-lyon like Hawkeweed is singular good for the Pleurisy if it be taken in drink CHAP. XXV Of Asarabacca THe Plants appropriated to the Eyes being thus dispatched we come next to some that are good for the Ears for it would be a piece of Injustice to take all the Care for the former and to neglect the latter though I indeed scarce find any plant good for the Ears but is so likewise for the Eyes Amongst which Asarabacca is none of the meanest whose Names are as follow The Names Pliny thought that it was called 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 in Greek quasi 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 in ornatum non veniens because it was not used in Garlands but the Text of Dioscorides is flat against him for he saith it is 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 a sweet herb used in Garlands It is also called 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 in Latine Asarum and Nardus sylvestris or Nardus Rustâ—ca and as Macer saith Vulgago as by his Verse appeareth Est Asarum Graecé Vâ—lgago dicta Latinis The former times thought Asarum and Baccharis to be one herb and therefore they called it Asara baccara which name is continued in Spain and other places and with us even to this day but the descriptions of them being so diverse it is fit this mâ—stake should be taken notice of and amended The Kindes The sorts hereof are three 1. Common Asarabacca 2. Virginian Asarabacca 3. Bastard Asarum of Matthiolus The Forme Asarabacca hath many Heads rising from the Roots from whence come many smooth Leaves every one upon his own footstalk which are rounder and bigger then Violet Leaves thicker also smoother and of a darker green shining colour on the upperside and of a paler yellow green underneath little or nothing dented about the Edges from among which arise small round hollow brownish green husks upon stalks of about an inch long divided at the brims into five divisions very like the Cups or Heads of the Henbane seed but that they are smaller and these be all the flowers it hath which being smelled unto are somewhat sweet and wherein when they are ripe are contained small cornered rough seeds very like the kernels or stones of Grapes or Raisins The roots are small and whitish spreading diverse waies in the ground and increasing into divers heads but not running or creeping under the ground as some other creeping herbs do They are somewhat sweet in smell resembling Nardus but more when they are dry then green and of a sharp but not unpleasant Taste The Place and Time The first groweth naturally under Trees and upon shady Hills in Pontus Phrygia and other places and is frequent in Gardens amongst us The title sheweth the place of the second It is said that the third is found upon some Mountains of Bohemia and likewise in Somersetshire here in England The first and second keep their green Leaves all the Winter but shoot forth new in the Spring and with them come forth those Heads or Flowers which give ripe seed about Midsummer or somewhat after the other doth follow much the same course The Temperature The Leaves of Asarabacca are hot and dry with a purging quality joyned thereunto yet not without a certain kind of astriction or binding The roots are also hot and dry yea more then the leaves they are of thin and subtil parts they procure Urine provoke the Termes and are like in faculty as Galen saith to the roots of Acorns but somewhat more forcible yet they may be promiscuously used one for another The Signature and Vertues By the Leaves of Asarabacca the Ears of a man are in some sort represented and it is found by experience that a Conserve may be made of the flowers of this Plant which being eat doth very much strengthen and encrease both hearing and memory The memory is also holpen and the Head and Brain that is ill affected by taking cold comforted if the Leaves and Roots be boyled in Lee and the head often washed therewith while it is warm The Common use hereof is to take the juyce of five or Seaven Leaves in a little drink which not only provoketh Vomiting but purgeth downward and by Urine also purging both Choler and Phlegme if you add to it some Spikenard and the whey of Goats Milk or Honyed water
in them and healeth Ulcers there if there be any The young clammy buds or eyes before they break out into leaves bruised and a little Honey put to them is a good Medicine for a dull sight by Signature An ounce of the bark in Powder being drunk saith Dioscorides in wine 't is likely is a remedy for those that are troubled with the Sciatica or Srangury and Serenus is of the same Judgment The black Poplar is held by some to be more cooling then the white and therefore they have with much profit applyed the leaves bruised with Vinegar to places troubled with the Gout and so do the young leaves and buds made into an Ointment with May-butter the seed is held to be good against the falling sicknesse if it be drunk in Vinegar That water that droppeth from the hollow places of the black Poplars doth take away Warts Pushes Wheales and other the like breakings out in the body The young black Poplar Buds saith Matthiolus are used by women to beautifie their hair bruising them with fresh butter and straining them after they have been for some time kept in the Sun The Ointment called Populeon is singular good for any heat or inflammation in any part of the Body and to temper the heat of wounds It is used also to dry up the Miâ—k in Womens Breasts after their delivery and when they have weaned their Children The Aspen leaves are somewhat weaker then those of the black Poplar yet the quantity being augmented they are used for the same purposes CHAP. XXIX Of Nightshade The Names SOme of the Greeks call it 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 but others and that more usually 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 In Latine Solanum and Solatrum Uva Lupina and Uva Vulpâ—s Cuculus and Morella Pliny saith it was also called Strumam and Cucubalus but they are thought bastard names and not proper to this plant In English Nightshade Morrel Petty-Morrel and in some places Hounds berries There is a sort hereof which is called Dwale or deadly Nightshade by reason of its pernicious and excesse cold quality and is therefore not to be used but by a skilfull hand but the Common or Garden Nightshade is not dangerous being heretofore planted in Gardens as other herbs for food wherefore it was called Solanum hortense or Garden Nightshade but is now no where used but Physically and is cast out of Gardens The Kinds Dioscorides reckoneth up four sorts 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Hortense 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Vesicarium 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Somniferum 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Manicum which are by a later Writer distinguished into ten kinds 1. Common Nightshade 2. Red berried common Nightshade 3. Sleepy Nightshade 4. The true sleepy Nightshade of the Ancient Writers 5. Sleepy Nightshade of another sort 6. Dwale or Deadly Nightshade 7. Hoary Indian Nightshade 8. Red Nightshade or Redweed of Virginia 9. The great Marvel of Peru. 10. The small Mervail of Peru which is a kind of Nightshade besides which there are divers other sorts that I may have occasion to mention elsewhere The Forme The Common Nightshade hath a somewhat upright round green hollow stalk and about a foot high bushing forth into many Branches whereon grow many dark green leaves somewhat broad and pointed at the ends soft and full of juyce larger then the leaves of Basil else somewhat like and a little unevenly dented about the edges at the tops of the stalks and branches come four or five or more white flowers made of five small pointed leaves a piece standing on a stalk together one by or above another with yellow pointells in the middle composed of four or five yellow threds set together which afterwards turn into so many pendulous green berries of the bigness of a small pease full of green Juyce and small whitish round flat seed lying within it the root is white and a little woody when it hath given flower and fruit with many small fibres at it the whole plant is of a waterish insipid taste but the Juyce within the Berries is somewhat viscous like unto a thin mucilage and is of a coolng and binding quality The Place and Time Common Night-shade groweth without planting under old walls and in rubbish by the common Paths and sides of Hedges and Fields and sometimes in Gardens out of which it is cast as a weed Dwale or deadly Night-shade groweth not only in the Woods of Germany but in divers places in our own Land as in the Castle-yard of Framingham in Suffolk in Cambridge-shire Essex c. The rest are strangers and not to be found unless it be in the better sort of Gardens as the Physick Garden at Oxon that at Westminster c. The first and the second die every year and rise of their own sowing the rest dye down to the ground in Winter and shoot afresh in the spring They do not spring out of the ground untill it be late in the year as not untill the latter end of April at the soonest They flowre in Summer even till the beginning of Autumne and then the fruit ripeneth The Temperature Galen saith in his Book of the faculties of simple Medicines that Garden Night-shade is used for those infirmities that have need of cooling and binding for these two qualities it hath in the second degree which thing also he affirmeth in his Book of the faculties of nourishments where he saith that there is no Pot-herb which we use to eat that hath so great astriction or binding as Night-shade hath and therefore Physicians do worthily use it and that seldom as a nourishment but alwayes as a Medicine Dwale is cold even in the fourth Degree The Signature and Vertues The Berries of Night-shade having some similitude with a Bladder are of excellent use to provoke Urine and to expel the stone especially the Seeds contained in them being drunk with White-wine It is commonly used to cool hot Inflammations either inwardly or outwardly being no way dangerous to any that shall use it as the rest of the Night-shades are if it be used moderately for the often taking thereof in too great a quantity procureth the Frenzy the remedy whereof is to take good store of warm honyed water The Juyce dropped into the Ears easeth the pains thereof that arise of heat or Inflammation The distilled water only of the whole Herb is fittest and safest to be taken inwardly The Juyce also clarified and mingled with Vineger is a good Gargarisme for the mouth and throat that is inflamed But outwardly the Juyce of the Herb or Berries with Oyl of Roses and a little Vineger and Cerusse laboured together in a leaden Mortar is very good to anoint all hot Inflammations in the Eys It doth also much good for the Shingles Ringworms and in all running fretting and corroding Ulcers and in moist Fistulaes if the juyce be made up with some Hens-Dung and applyed thereto A Pessary dipped in the Juyce and put up into the Matrix stayeth
a yard long or longer bearing flowers towards the top compact of six leaves joyned together whereof three that stand upright are bent inward one toward another and in those leaves that hang downwards there are certain rough and hairy Welts growing or rising from the nether part of the leaf upward almost of a yellow colour The Roots be long thick and knobby with many hairy threds hanged thereat but being dry it is without them and white The Places and Time These Fowerdeluces aforementioned and many more though they grow naturally in Africa Greece Italy and France and some in Germany yet they are nursed up in the Cardens of those who are lovers of such varieties Gladwin groweth wild in many places as in woods and shaddowy places near the Sea here in England and so doth the Water Flowerdeluce in moist meddows and in the borders and brinks of rivers ponds and standing Lakes but though it be natural to such places yet being planted in Gardens it prospereth weâ—â— The dwarâ—e kind of Flag Flowerdeluces flower in April the greater in May and the bulbous sorts not until June the Gladwin not till July The Seed is ripe in the end of August or beginning of September yet the husks after they are ripe will hold their seeds with them two or three moneths and not shed them The Temperature The Roots of the Flowerdeluce when they are green and full of Juyce are hot almost in the fourth degree but when it is dry it is hot only in the third yet then it burneth the throat and mouth of such as tast thereof It offendeth the stomach and causeth blood to be voided if given in too great a Dose and to weak persons It is not safe to be taken by Women with child because it bringeth down the courses yea a Pessary made of the Juyce with Honey and put up into the body bringeth away the birth therefore it is not safe to give it alone but with good Correctives In gripings of the bowels give it with Mastick in the Joynt gout with Castor in the Dropsie with Honey of Roses in diseases of the Liver with Rubarbe Juyce of Agrimony c. The Signature and Vertues The Juyce of the Root of the Common Fowerdeluce being first extracted afterwards set a while to clear and then put up into the Nostrills provoketh sneesing and thereby purgeth the head of flegme so that though some one may say this plant is not proper to the Nose yet as long as it may be appropriated to the head we are not quite out of our Sphear for it easeth the pain of the head and procureth Rest if it be applyed with Rose Cake and Vinegar it cleanseth spots in the Eyes and helpeth watry Eyes by cleansing them The Roots are effectual to warm and comfort all cold Joynts and Sinewes as also to ease the Gout and Sciatica and mollifieth dissolveth and consumeth all Scrophulous tumours and swellings by Signature especially made into an Oyl called Oleum Irinum which oyl also helpeth the Cramp and Convulsion the rheum that is cold and distilling from the head and being nointed on the breast it helpeth to extenuate or make thin tough and cold phlegm making it more easy to spit out it helpeth the stench of the Nostrils the pain and noise in the Ears and much easeth the painful Piles The root it self green or in powder doth cleanse heal and incarnate wounds and covers with flesh the naked bones which Ulcers have made bare and is also good to cleanse and heal up Fistulaes and Cancers that are hard to be cured It helpeth the pains and swellings of the Cods if it be thus used Take of the roots in powder half an ounce Cinamom and Dill of each two drachms Saffron a scruple mix them well together lay them on a Scarlet Cloth moistned in White wine and apply it warm to the Cods The green roots bruised and applyed to black and blew marks in the skin taketh them away and all other discolouring of the skin whether Morphew or the like but it is better to apply it with red Rose water and a little Lin-Seed Oyl ot oyl of Parmacity in manner of a Pultis Moreover a decoction of the roots gargled in the Mouth easeth the Tooth-ach and helpeth a strong or stinking breath Being mixed with a little Honey and drunk it purgeth and cleanseth the stomach of gross and tough phlegme and choler therein it likewise helpeth the Jaundice and the Dropsie by evacuating those humours both upward and downwards it easeth also the paines of the belly and sides the shaking of Agues the diseases of the Liver and Spleen the Worms in the belly the Stone in the Reins Convulsions or Cramps that come of cold humours and helpeth those whose seed passeth from them unawares It is a remedy against the bitings and stingings of venemous Creatures being boyled in water and Vinegar and drunk being boyled in Wine and drunk it provoketh Urine and the Cholick An Electuary made hereof called Dia-ireos Solomonis is very good for the Lungs and helps cold infirmities of them as Asthmaes Coughs difficulty of breathing c. You may take it with a Liquoris stick or on the point of a knife a little of it at a time and often CHAP. XXXIIII Of Hors-tail The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and Hippuris in Latine also by divers Equâ—setum or Cauda Equina which is the same with Hippuris of the forme oâ— an Horsetail which the stalk of leaves being turned downwards doth resemble By other names it is likewise called as Equinalis and by Pliny Equâ—sclis and of some Salix Equina and Sangu nalis from the powerfull efficâ—cy it hath to stench blood and of others Asprella because of its ruggednesse which hath not formerly been unknown to Country Houâ—wives who with the rougher kind hereof called in English Shavegrass did as now with Elder Leaves but more effectually scowre their Pewter Brass and Woodâ—en Vessels and therefore it hath been by some of them called Pewterwort but I think that piece of thriftinesse with many other are laid aside which might profitably be revived if they knew it Of some it is called Ephedra Anabasis and Caucon Fletchers also and Combe makers polish their work therewith The Kindes There be hereof fourteen sorts mentioned by modern Writers 1. The greater Marsh Horsetail 2. Broad leafed Horsetail 3. Small Marsh Horsetail 4. Barren Marsh Horsetail 5. The smallest and finest leafed Horsetail 6. Many headed Horsetail 7. Rush or naked Horsetail 8. Branched Rush Horsetail 9. Small party coloured Horsetail 10. Stinking Horsetail 11. The great Meadow Horse-tail 12. Corn Horsetail 13. Wood Horsetail 14. Mountain Horsetail of Candy The Form The greater Horsetail that groweth in wet grounds at the first springing hath heads somewhat like to those of Asparagus and after grow to be hard rough hollow stalks joynted at sundry places up to the top a foot high so made as if the lower part
hath a thick short knobbed Root blackish without and somewhat reddish within a little crooked or writhed together of an harsh or astringent tast with divers blackish Fibres growing thereat from whence spring up every year divers Leaves standing upon long foot-stalks being somewhat long and broad very like unto a Dock-Leaf and a little pointed at the ends but that it is crumpled of a blewish green colour on the upper side and of an Ash colour gray and a little Purplish underneath having divers veins therein from among which arise divers small and slender stalks about half a yard high almost naked and without Leaves or with very few narrow ones bearing a spiky bush of pale flesh coloured Flowers which being past there abideth small Seed somewhat like unto Sorrel-Seed but greater The Places and Time The two first grow at the foot of Hills and in shadowy moyst Woods near unto them in many places of Germany and in our Country likewise in moyst and watery places particularly in a Meadow about a stones throw above the Abby Mill at St. Albans about an Acres breadth or somewhat more from the River side where the common Bistort groweth plentifully though it be chiefly nourished in Gardens The fourth groweth in VVestmerland about Crosby in Cumberland about Ravenswaith in York-shire Lancashire and divers other places The third groweth on the high Hills in Silesia and other places The two last are round on the Alps in divers places and the last also amongst the Switzers They all flower about the end of May and the Seed is ripe about the beginning of July The Temperature Bistort is cold and dry in the third Degree and very astringent The Signature and Vertues This Plant hath a double Signature both proceeding from the Roots the one from the colour of the inside of them the other from the writhed or twisted form The bloody colour of the Roots betokeneth that it is effectuall to stay the bleeding of the Nose and all manner of inward bleeding and spitting of blood as also any Fluxes of the body in man or woman and likewise vomiting the Powder of the Root in Wine or the decoction thereof being drunk The juyce hereof being put up into the Nose prevaileth much against the Diâ—ease called Polypus and all other Sores or Cancers that happen in the Nose or any other part but the surest way is first to wash them with the distilled water and afterwards to apply the Powder of the Root thereto It is good also to fasten the Gums and to take away the heat and Inflammation that happen as well in the Jawes Almonds of the Throat or Mouth if the decoction of the Roots Leaves or Seeds be used or the juyce of them The Root of Bistort Pellitory of Spain and burnt Allome of each a like quantity beaten small and made into a Past with Honey a little peece thereof put into an hollow Tooth or holden between the teeth if they be not hollow stayeth the defluxions of Rheum upon them when it is the cause of their pain and helpeth to cleanse the Head and void much offensive matter The wreathed form of the Root is a sign that is good against the bitings of Serpents or Snakes for which it is found to be very effectuall as also for the venoming of Toads Spiders Adders or the like venomous Creatures if the place be washed with the water that is distilled from the Root and Leaves A dram of the powdered Root taken in drink expelleth the Venom of the Plague the small Pox Measels Purples or any other infectious Disease driving it forth by sweating The Powder of the Root or the decoction thereof being drunk is very available against Ruptures or burstings or all bruises or falls whatsoever dissolving the congealed blood and easing the pains that happen thereupon The said decoction being made with Wine and drunk hindereth abortion that is when Women are apt to miscarry in Child-bearing the Leaves kill worms in Children and is a great help to them that cannot keep their water if some juyce of Plantain be put thereto which applyed outwardly doth give much help in the Gonorrhaea or running of the Reins A dram of the Powder of the Root taken in the water thereof wherein some red hot Iron or Steel hath been quenched is also an admirable help thereto so as the body be first prepared and purged from the offensive humours The Leaves Seeds or Roots are all very good in Decoctions Drinks or Lotions for invard or outward wounds or other sores and the Powder strewed upon any Cut or Wound in a vein stayeth the immoderate bleeding thereof The Decoction of the Roots in water whereupon some Pomegranate Pills and Flowers are added injected into the Matrix stayeth the access of humours to the Ulcers thereof and bringeth it to its right place being fallen down and stayeth the immoderate Flux of the Courses The Roots are most used in Physick and will keep good a year or two The Dose in Powder is from a scruple to a dram into Decoction from a drachm to two or three which is made by bruising a sufficient quantity of the root suppose two drachms and boyling it in half a pint of Posâ—et drink till about half be consumed then strain it and give the clearest to be drunk in a morning CHAP. XXXVIII Of Tormentil The Names THough none of the Greek writers have mentioned this herb yet it hath got a Greek name and is called 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 ex 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Septem et 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 folium that is Seven-leaves but not properly it being only one leaf cut into seven divisions For there is a general rule in all Leaves whether of herbs or trees that that which falleth away with the stalk and not in parts and at several times is the leaf though it be winged as that of the Ash Elder Walnut tree c. the great Centory Agrimony Danewort Parsnep Valerian c. is or divided as Trefoil Cinquefoil or Tormentil c. is It is called in Latine Tormentilla quia valet adversus tormenta intestinorum from its vertue in easing the torments of the Guts and Heptaphyllum or Septifolium and of some Stellaria from the form of the leaves though that be a name applyed to other plants of the like form In English Tormentil Setfoil or Seven-leaves The Kinds Formerly there was but one sort of Tormentill known but now there are three 1. Common Tormentil 2. The greater Tormentil 3. Silver leafed Tormentil The Forme The common Tormentil hath many reddish slender weak branches rising from the root lying upon the ground or rather leaning then standing upright with many short leaves that stand closer to the stalks as the Cinkfoil doth which this is otherwise somewhat like with the footstalks encompassing the Branches in several places but they that grow next the ground are set upon longer footstalks each whereof are like the leaves of Cinkfoil but somewhat longer and lesser
you shall seldom misâ—e the Cure of an Ague in three fits be it what it will even to admiration as Mr. Culpepper affirmeth The juyce hereof drunk about four Ounces at a time for certain dayes together cureth the Quinsie and the yellow Jaundice and taken for thirty dayes together cureth the Falling-Sickness The Roots boyled in milk and drunk is a most effectuall Remedy for all Fluxes either in Man or Woman whether the whites reds or Bloody Flux The Roots boyled in Vinegar and the decoction thereof held in the mouth easeth the pains of the Tooth-ach The juyce or decoction taken with a little Honey helpeth the hoarsness of the Throat and is good for the Cough of the Lungs The distilled water of the Roots and Leaves is also effectuall to all the purposes aforesaid and if the hands be often washed therein and suffered every time to dry of it self without wiping it will in short time help the Palsie or shaking of them CHAP. XL. Of Sow-bread The Names THis Plant is the last that I shall treat of in relation to the Nose The Greek Names of it are 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 It was called by the first Name 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 a Circulo because both the Leaf and the Root are of a circular or round Figure by the later 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 because it was used to kill Fishes It is called in Latine Tuber terrae Terrae rapum because of its knobby Tur-nep-like Root and Umbilicus terrâ— because as the Navill of a Mans Body strutteth out a little above the Belly so this sometimes above the Earth of some Orbicularis of others Palalia Rapum porcinum malum Terrae In Shops Cyclamen Panis Porcinus Artanita In English Sowbread or Swine-bread because the Swine love it and feed upon it in those Countries where it is plentiful The kinds Parkinson in former book hath reckoned up a dozen sorts or more hereof the want whereof will constrain me to content my self only with the mentioning of three which are 1. Common round Sow-bread 2. Ivy-Sow-bread 3. A strange Plant sent for a bastard Sow-bread of the Spring The Forme The common kind of Sow-bread hath many green and round leaves like unto Asarabacca saving that the upper part of the Leaves are mixed here and there confusedly with white spots and under the Leaves next the ground of a purple colour amongst which rise up little stems like the stalks of Violets beaâ—ing at the top small purple or murrey coloured Flowers which turn themselves backwards of a small scent or savour or none at all which being past there succeed little round knops or heads that contain slender brown seeds these knops are wrapped after a few dayes in the small stalks as thred about a bottom where it remaineth so defended from the in jury of the winter close upon the ground covered also with the green Leaves aforesaid by which means it is kept from the frost even from the time of his seeding which is in September untill June at what time the leaves do faâ—e away the stalks and seed remaining bare and naked whereby it enjoyeth the Sun the sooner to bring them to maturity the Root is round like a Turnep black without and white within with many small strings annexed thereunto The Places and Time The first groweth plentifully about Artois and Vermandois in France and in the Forrest of Arden The second which is the best of all in many places of Italy The third on the Pyrenaean Hills Gerard saith that he hath heard that Sow-bread groweth on the Mountains in Wales on the Hills of Lincolnshire and Somersetshire which I never heard of from any but him who had it but from another and therefore I believe the relator was mistaken it being not so much as mentioned in the Catalogue of British Plants notwithstanding it is frequent in Gardens and is nursed up there more for its Flower then any thing else because it is in its prime when most others are decayed for it flowreth in September and afterwards when the Plant is without Leaf which do afterwards spring up continuing green all winter covering and keeping warm the Seed unto Midsummer next at what time the Seed is ripe The third flowreth in the Spring and therefore it is called Cyclamen vernum or Sow-bread of the Spring The Temperature Although Mesue doth determine the Degrees hereof to be hot and dry in the beginning of the third yet Galen doth not so but saith only 70. Simplicium that it cutteth cleanseth and openeth the mouthes of the Veins draweth and digesteth which is plainly seen by the particular operations thereof The Vertues and Signature Matthiolus saith that the distilled water from the Roots of Sow-bread snuffed up into the Nostrils stayeth their bleeding wonderfully and that if six Ounces of that water be drunk wich an Ounce of fine Sugar it will stay the blood that commeth from the breast stomach or Liver in a wonderful manner or if any Vein be broken in them It purgeth somewhat violently and therefore it is fit as he saith to mix therewith some Mastick or Nutmeg or a scruple of Rubarb by the use whereof many have been holpen of the hardness and swelling of the spleen which could not be holpen by other things It easeth also the pains and torments of the Bowels which we call the Cholick And if saith he the Root hereof be beaten with a few Peach-stone-Kernels and bitter Almonds and after laid in sleep in Aquâ—vitae for three dayes a drop or two of the expressed Cream thereof dropped into the Ears that are deaf or have much noyse helpeth them the juyce mixed with Honey or Plantain-water helpeth all sores in the mouth or throat being gargled therewith and the Tooth-ach also The juyce of it openeth the Hemorrhoides or Piles and strongly moveth to the Stool being put up in Wooll and saith Mesues it avoideth tough Flegme used in a Clister It is also used with such Medicines as discuss swellings Kernels and other hard knots in any part of the body It helpeth also the Pin and Web in the Eyes being infused with Honey as also avoideth it by the Nostrils and that by snuffing up the juyce the head and brain is purged from those humours that offend it the Ach also and daily pains of it and the Meagrim This Plant belongeth to the womb by Signature and therefore as Theophrastus affirmeth the fresh Root put into a Cloth and applyed for a little time to the secret parts of a Woman that is in sore and long Travail in Child-birth helpeth them to an easie and speedy delivery but it is dangerous till then to be medled with by Women with Child because it will make them miscarry It is profitable for those that have the yellow Jaundice to drive it forth by sweating if after the taking of three drams of the Powder in Mead or Honeyed water they be carefully ordered to sweat It
white and shining colour are sufficient Signatures to manifest that it is an excellent remedy for all maladies of the Teeth whether the Decoction be gargled in the Mouth or the dry root held between the Teeth It is also exceeding good for the Dropsie by Signature also according to Oswald Crollius in his book of Signatures It helpeth likewise the griping pains of the sides and belly and cureth inward wounds that are made in the Breast Lungs and Bowells a dram of the powder of the root taken for many daies together in Red Wine the same also given to them that are bursten or have a rupture is very beneficial in the distilled Water of the herb called Horse-tail It stayeth also Lasks and Fluxes that do not proceed of hot and Choletick humours the decoction of the herb is good to be applyed both to green Wounds quickly to conâ—olidate them and for old â—ilthy Sores to dry up their moisture and thereby to cause them to heal the sooner CHAP. LVII Of Rest Harrow The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and likewise in Latine Anonis and Ononis some think it to be so called Anonis from its unprofitablenesse quasi non juvans because it is an enemy both to the Husbandmen ploughing up the ground and to the Corn as it grows Others will rather have it to be Ononis 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 quasi dicas Asini oblectaâ—entum because Asses love to roul themselves upon it and to shrub their backs with its prickles It is also called Resta Bovis and Aresta Bovis and Remoram Aratri because the Roots are both so â—ough that the Ploughshare cannot easily cut them and so deeply and strongly fastned in the ground that it causeth the Oxen to be at a stand for the first twitch not being able without moâ—â— then ordinary strâ—nâ—â—h to pull them fâ—â—th Cordus on Dioscorides callerth it Acutella because the thorns of it do prick those that unwarily go by it It is called in English Restharrow Cammock Petty Whin and Ground Furse The Kinds The Sorts hereof according to Parkinson are Eight 1. Common Rest Harrow with Purplish flowers 2. Rest Harrow with white Flowers 3. The great yellow prickly Rest Harrow 4. The lesser yellow prickly Rest Harrow 5. Purplish Rest Harrow without thorns 6. The greater yellow gentle Rest Harrow 7. Variable yellow gentle Rest Harrow 8. The lesser gentle Rest Harrow The Forme Common Rest Harrow riseth up with divers rough woody twigs about half a yard long set at the joynts without Order with little roundish Leaves sometimes more then two or three at a place of a dark green colour without thorns whilst they are young but afterwards armed in sundry places with short and sharp thorns The flowers come forth at the tops of the Twigs and branches whereof it is full fashioned like Pease or Broom Blossoms but lesser flatter and somewhat closer of a faint purplish colour after which come small Pods containing small flat and round seed the root is blackish on the outside and whitish within very tough and hard to break when it is fresh and green and as hard as a horn when it is dryed thrusting down deep into the ground and spreading likewise every piece being apt to grow again if it be left in the ground The Places and Time The first and the fift grow in many places of this Land as well in the Arable as wast ground The second with white flowers groweth near unto Darby Gesner saith the third groweth on the hill Gemma and Columna saith the fourth groweth in the kingdom of Naples and about Bristow in England as Lobel and others affirm The sixth seaventh and eight with their varieties grow as well in Narbone in France and about Mompelier as in Spain and Portugal they do all flower about the beginning or middle of July and their seed is ripe in August The Temperature Galen saith that the root of Rest Harrow is hot in the third degree having some cleansing and cutting faculty therein also The Vertues and Signature A Decoction of Rest Harrow made with Vinegar and gargled in the mouth easeth the Toothach especially when it cometh of Rheum The powder of the roots strewed upon the hard callous brims of Ulcers or the said powder mixed with any other convenient thing and applyed doth consume the hardnesse and cause them to heal the better The powder taken in Wine for many daies together cures the fleshy Rupture for it consumeth it by little and little The decoction thereof is effectual to open the stoppings of the Liver and Spleen and other parts and to help the Jaundise as also to cure the blind Hemorrhoides or Piles The â—ender Sprigs or stalks thereof before they become prickly are pickled up to be eaten by themselves or as sawce with meat and are commended against a stinking breath and to take away the swell of Wine in them that have drunk too much and are good for the gravel and stone boyled in Oxymel to the Consumption of the one half it is a singular drink for the falling Sicknesse The Bark that is the Root having the pith between taken out made into powder and taken in Wine provoketh Urine breaketh the Stone and driveth it forth and so do both the husks and seeds and that by Signature Croll Tract de Signat CHAP. LVIII Of Henbane The Names IT is called in the Grecians 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 quasi faba parcina sive suilla saith my Author because Swine having fed thereon are very muck disturbed thereby yea are in danger of their lives if they wallow not themselves in water presently thereupon neither do they go into the water to wash themselves but to seek after Crevises by the eating of which they recover But for my part I can scarce allow of the Name for this reason aforesaid because I never saw any Hogs feed upon it much lesse to go into the Rivers to catch Crevise for in the Mire where they commonly wallow there be none and besides why that should be called their Beane which is their Bane I know not I rather suppose it to be so called for that in such places as these Cattle do commonly dung abundance of this plant groweth as in Hog-yards Dunghills and such places as they frequent it being the Nature of their dung to breed it as I have heard it confirmed by some skilful Husbandmen The Latines call it Apollinaris either from Apollo the Inventer of Physick or because it makes men mad like unto Apollo's Creatures when they deliver his Oracles Is called also Altercum ab altercando because they that have eat it are apt to quarrel Camerarius saith it is also called Priapeia because the Italians do use the seed of it to allay the Enormity called Priapismus Pythagoras Zoroastes and others call it Insana Alterculum Symphoniaca and Calicularis the Phrygians Remenia the Tuscans Fabulonia and Faba Lupina Matthaeus Sylvaticus Dens Caballinus Milimandrum Cassilago
are most common Nature or rather the God of Nature having placed those things we most need even before our Eyes It flowreth in June and July The Temperature VVild Tansie especially the Root of it is dry almost in the third Degree hahaving in it very little heat apparent and withall a binding faculty And therefore Fuschius saith that some Writers have been much mistaken in affirming it to be moyst for no other Reason but because it grows in moyst places For then Water-Cresses which are dry in the third Degree must be moyst also which no one dares be so impudent as to affirm And certainly had they but considered its astringency which is a certain token of drynesse they could not have concluded otherwise For Galen in his fourth Book of the faculties of simple Medicines saith that astringents have in them some earthly quality and are consequently drying The Vertues and Signature Wild Tansie boyled in Vinegar with Honey and Allum and gargled in the mouth easeth the Tooth-ach fasteneth loose Teeth helpeth the Gums that are sore and setleth the Palat of the mouth in its place when it is fallen down It cleanseth and healeth the Ulcers in the mouth or secret parts and is very good for inward wounds and to close the lips of green wounds as also to heal old moyst corrupt running Sores in the Leggs or elsewhere Being boyled in Wine and drunk it stoppeth the Lask the Bloody Flux and all other Fluxes of blood either in Man or Woman which some say it will also do if the green Herb be worn in the shooes so it be next the skin and it is true enough that it will stop the Terms if worn so and it may be the Whites also which the Powder of the dryed Herb will assuredly do if it be taken in some of the distilled water but more especially if a little Corall and Ivory in Powder be put to it Moreover it stayeth spitting or vomiting of blood and is much commended to help Children that are bursten and have a Rupture being boyled in water and Salt Being boyled in Wine and drunk it easeth the griping pains of the Bowels and is good for the Sciatica and Joynt-Aches Being bruised and applyed to the Soles of the Feet and the Hand-wrists it wonderfully cooleth the hot fits of the Agues be they never so violent The distilled water dropped into the Eys or Cloaths wet therein and applyed taketh away the heat and Inflammations in them by Signature the Flower of it representing the Apple of the Eye The said water cleanseth the skin of all discolourings therein as Morphew Sun-burning c. as also Pimples Freckles and the like but the Leaves steeped in White-wine or Butter-milk is far better but the best way of all is to steep it in strong White-wine-Vineger the face being often bathed or washed therewith CHAP. LX. Of Flea-wort The Names I shall conclude this Subject concerning the mouth and the parts thereof with Fleawort which is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 in Latine Pulicaria and Herba Pulicaria in Shops Psyllium in English Flea-wort All which Names were given to it for the same Reason 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 in Greek and Pulex in Latine signifying a Flea yet not because it driveth away Fleas if it be brought green into an House but because the Seed is like unto Fleas that were it not in respect of motion you could hardly distinguish them by sight It is of some called Fleabane but improperly there being another Pulicaria called Conyza which driveth away Fleas The Kindes The Ancients knew but one sort of Flea-wort but later times have discovered foure 1. The ordinary Flea-wort 2. The greater ever-green Flea-wort 3. Indian Flea-wort with dented Leaves 4. Small Flea-wort The Forme The ordinary Flea-wort riseth with a stalk two foot high or more full of Joynts and Branches on every side up to the top and at every joynt two small long and narrow whitish green Leaves somewhat hairy At the tops of every branch stand divers small short scaly or chaffy heads out of which come forth small whitish yellow threds like to those of the Plantane Herbs which are the bloomings or Flowers The Seed inclosed in those Heads is small and shining while it is fresh very like unto Fleas both for colour and bignesse but turning black when it groweth old The Root is not long but white hard and wooddy perishing every year and rising again of its own Seed for divers years if it be â—uffered to shed The whole Plant is somewhat whitish and hairy smelling somewhat like Rozin The Places and Time The first groweth in the Fields and untilled places of Spain and Italy but with Us no where but in Gardens The second groweth in the Fields that are near the Sea The third is thought to come out of the Indies The last is naturally of Egypt or Arabia All these Flea-worts flowre in July or thereabouts with Us but in their natural places all the Summer long yet the last is the latest with Us. The Temperature Galen and Serapio do record that the Seed of Flea-wort which is chiefly used in Medicine is cold in the second Degree and temperate in moysture and drynesse The Vertues The Muscilage or infusion of the Seeds of Flea-wort being made with Rose-water or Barley-water and taken with Syrup of Violets Syrup of Roses or Sugar purgeth Cholet and thick flegme and is useful in hot burning Feavers in great thirst and helps to lenifie the drynesse of the mouth and throat it helpeth also the hoarsnesse of the Voyce and Diseases of the Breast and Lungs caused by heat as the Plurisie and such like It helpeth all Inflammations of the Head and all hot pains of the Joynts The Muscilage of the Seed made into an Electâ—ary with Marmalade of Quinces with Popyy-Seed and Sugar Pellets or Sugar Candy and so taken doth temper rhe heat and roughnesse of the Throat and Tongue and stayeth hot Fluxions or Rheums flowing down In hot burning Agues it quencheth thirst and abates heat being taken with Syrup of Violets or Barley-water and purgeth also Choler gently The Seeds torrifyed or dryed and taken with Plantane water stayeth the Flux of the Belly and helpeth the corrosions or gripings thereof that come by reason of hot Cholerick sharp and malignant humours or by the super purgation or over-working of any violent Medicine such as Scammony or the like The Seeds being kept on the Tongue easeth the Cough and helpeth the drynesse thereof proceeding from heat It doth so wonderfully cool saith Fernelius that being cast into hot boyling water it presently cooleth it The Seeds bruised or the Herb and mixed with the juyce of Housleek or Night-shade easeth the hot Gout and hot Apostumes being thereunto applyed mingled with Oyl of Roses and Vineger it cureth hot Swellings in the Joynts and Apostumes behinde the Eate with Vineger or Oyl of Violets it helpeth the pain of the head if it be applyed to the
a thing as Wheat yet he seems to â—e so to be for in rekoning up seven sorts of Wheat he saith that there is 1. Bare or naked white Wheat 2. Bearded or Red Wheat 3. Bright eared Wheat 4. Double eared Wheat 5. The wild Wheat of Candy 6. Tripoly wheat 7. Summer wheat For my part I never saw a Land of Red Wheat with beards but many hundred Acres without and for White Wheat I have seen it both without and with Beards I have heard of sorts of wheat which Country People call Duckbill Wheat Cone Wheat c. Which whether they be by names to any of the former I am not certain but I think by Duckbill Wheat they mean the Red and by Cone Wheat they mean the White Wheat with beards which maketh not so white bread as the Red. The Summer-wheat is also called Triticum Amylâ—um Starch Corn whereof Starch is made Whose description I shall give you because it is not so well known as the other The Forme Starch Corn is very like unto wheat in Stalk and Seed but the Ears are narrower the beards longer and the grains smaller the Eare thereof is set round about and made up with two ranks with certain beards as I said before almost after the manner of Barley and the Seed is closed up in Chaffy Husâ—s and is sowen in the Spring The Places and Time I have observed the white Wheat to grow frequently in Hartfordshire and the Bright Eared Wheat also here and there The Red Wheat in Oxfordshire but without Beards The double Wheat groweth about Lyons in France The fift was brought from Tripoly The sixt from Candy The seventh groweth in Germany Poland and Denmark The double Wheat Summer Wheat and that of Candy are to be sown in the Spring because they will not indure the cold of the Winter but the rest are sown in Autumn are reaped in July or August The Temperature The kinds of Wheat according to their naturall qualities are hot in the first Degree but neither dryeth nor moistneth evidently as Galen saith yet Pliny saith it dryeth The Vertues The bread that is made of Wheat being applyed hot out of the Oven for an hour three daies together to the Throat that is troubled with Kernels or the Kings Evil healeth it perfectly and Slices of it after it is a little stale being soaked in Red Rose Water and applyed to the eyes that are hot red and inflamed or that are bloodshot helpeth them The flower of Wheat mixed with the juyce of Henbane doth stay the flux of humours to the joynts being laid thereon tâ—e said meal boyled in Vinegar helpeâ—h the shrinking of the Sinews saith Pliny aâ—d mixed with Vinegar and Hony boyled together healeth all â—reckles spots and Pimples on the face Wheat-flowre being mixed with the Yolk of an Egge Honey and Turpentine doth draw cleanse and heal any Bile or Plague-sore or any other foul Uâ—cer the Bran of Wheat Meal is often boyled in the Decoction of a Sheeps Head and it is given in Clysters to cleanse and open the Body and to ease the griping pains of the Intralls The said Bran steeped in sharp Vinegar and then bound in a Linnen Cloth and rubbed on those places that have the Morphew Scurf Scab or Leprosie will take them away so that the Body be well prepared and purged before the Decoction of the Bran of Wheat or Barley is found of good use to bathe those places which are bursten by a Rupture the said Bran boyled in good Vinegar and applyed to swollen Breasts doth help them and stayeth all Inflammations It helpeth also the biting of Vipers â—â— other venemous Creatures The Leaven of Wheat Meal hath a property to â—eal and to draw and in especiall it rarifieth the hard skins of the feet and hands as also Warts and hard knots in the flesh being applyed with some Salt Starch moystned with Rose-water and layd to the Cods taketh away their itching The Waters that are made of the purest and finest volatile Flower being put in water and drunk doth stay the Lask and Bloody-Flux and is profitably used both inwardly and outwardly for the Rupture in Children and boyled with Roses dry Figs and some Jujubes maketh a fit Lotion to wash sore mouths or Throats and when the Kernels thereof are swollen and sore the same also boyled in water unto a thick gelley and taken stayeth the spitting of blood and boyled with Mints and Butter it helpeth the hoarsnesse of the Throat Pliny saith That the Corns of Wheat parched upon an Iron Pan and eaten is a present remedy for those that are chilled with cold The Oyl pressed from Wheat between two thick Plates of Iron or Copper heated healeth all Tetters and Ring-worms being used warm And hereby Galen saith he hath known many to be cured Matthiolus commendeth the same Oyl to be put into hollow Ulcers to heal them up and it is good for Chops in the hands or feet and to make a rugged skin smooth Dioscorides saith That to eat the Corns of green Wheat hutteth the stomach and breedeth Worms but chewed and applyed to the biting of a mad Dog it cureth it CHAP. LXXI Of Barley The Names THis Grain is generally in Greek called 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 in Latine Hordeum but two of the kindes are distinguished into Distichon and Polysticâ—n which last is most likely to be that which Galen calleth Gymnocrithâ—n that is Hordeum nudum not that the Ears are without rowes but because the Grain is Huskless and may be also the Cantherinum of Columella which he saith the Countrymen called Hexasticum We have a small kind of Grain brought from Germany to our Druggists in great quantity termed French Barley and is probable to be this Barley which Cordus saith was sent him out of Italy having six rowes in the Ears There is a kind also which by Tragus and Cordus is called Hordeum minus and by Columella Hordeum Galaticum because it is whiter from 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Milk which is of a white colour The Kinds The Sorts of Barley are in number four 1. Bear Barley or common Barley 2. Big Barley 3. Winter Barly 4. Naked or bare Barly The Forme The ordinary Barly is so well known to all sorts of people that to describe it were to teach them that which they know already and therefore I shall describe that which is called naked or bare Barly It hath many rowes of Corns in the Eare which are inclosed in the Husks having not that skin on them that the other hath being lank small yellow and short almost like Wheat but lesse The stalks are like unto the common Barly saving that it hath not so many stalks rising from the Roots so that though the one have six rowes yet the other hath thirty or forty stalks to countervail them The Place and Time The first is Our usuall Barly in all the South parts of this Nation the other in the North parts only the
the outward Forme thereof but also by the Sinewes and Veine that run thorough it And therefore it availeth very much in divers diseases of the Tongue whether they happen from wounds as biting cutting or the like or from inflammations of that or any other part adjacent as the Mouth Gums Throat c. as also from the Cankers or any other eating sore the decoction juyce or water thereof being often gargled in the mouth or especially a little Vinegar Honey and Allome being mixed therewith The juyce or Herb stayeth the bleeding of the Nose or the bleeding of wounds The clarified Juyce or Water thereof droppâ—d into the eye cooleth the heat thereof as also the Pin and Web thereof and dropt into the eares easeth the pains therein and helpeth deafnesse The same with the juyce of House-leeke is very profitably applyed against all inflammation and breakings out of the skin and against burnings or scalding by Fire or Water The juyce mixed with the Oyl of Roses and the Temples and Forehead annointed therewith easeth the pains of the head proceeding from heat and helpeth frantick and lunatick persons very much as also the biting of Serpents or a madde Dogge The clarified juyce drunk for divers dayes together by it selfe or with some other liquor is wonderfull good to stay spitting of blood and all other bleedings at the Mouth when a vein is broken at the mouth of the Stomack and is likewise effectuall to heal any Ulcer in the Reines or Bladder when bloody or foul water proceedeth therefrom It is held also an especiall remedy for those that have the Consumption of the Lungs or that are troubled with any Ulcer in that part or that have Coughs that come with Heat The same also is commended very much against all torments and frettings in the Guts stayeth the Courses and all other manner of Fluxes as well in Man as Woman The decoction or powder of the Root or Seed is much more binding then the Herbe whereby it helpeth Agues The seed made into powder and mixed with the yolk of an Egge and some wheaten flower and made into a Cake and baked doth stay vomiting or any other Flux or rising in the Stomack The herb but especially the Seed is likewise held to be profitable against the Dropsie Falling-Sicknesse Yellow Jaundise and the stoppings of the Liver or Reines The powder of the dryed Leavs taken in warm drink or Posset drink killeth worms in the Belly The juyce of the Leaves mixed with oyl of Roses is profitably applyed to all hot Gouts in the Hands or Feet especially in the beginning to cool the heat and represse the humors It is also good to be applyed where any bone is out of Joynt to hinder Inflammations Swellings and pains which will arise presently thereupon A decoction of the Leaves killeth Worms that breed in old and foul Ulcers One part of Plantaine-Water and two parts of the brine of powdered beefe boyled together and clarified is a most sure remedy to heal all spreading Scabs and Itch in the Head or Body all manner of Tetters or Ringwormes the Shingles and all other running and fretting sores The Leaves laid upon any place where the skin is scratched of skinneth it again whether it be newly done or not and being made into a Salve with Oyl Wax and Turpentine it cureth deep wounds though the Sinews and Veins be cut asunder whereof it hath the Signature The juyce alone or stamped with Vinegar and applyed to the Feeet that surbated sore and swollen with travell bringeth them again to their right temper CHAP. LXXVII Of Columbines The Names THere is great contesting amongst Authors concerning this Plant whether it were known to the Ancients or not One will have it to be the Pothos of Theophrastus another his Diosanthos another would have it to be the Isopyrum of Dioscorides but Cornutus affirms point blanck that it was not knowne It is generally called by the Writers of a later date Aquileia Aquilina Aquilegia because the folds of the Leaves do somewhat resemble those Pipes called Aquileges which were made as Pliny mentions for the conveying of water which they also contain in them as Cornuâ—us seemeth to inferre especially from that sort of his which came from Canada That this Plant should have likenesse of properties with wild Oâ—tes called in Greek Aegilops seemeth to be altogether improbable It knows no other English name but Columbines The Kindes To set forth the varieties of Columbines according to their colours would be the Task of a Florish I shall only give you those which have different Termes and they are six 1 Single Columbines 2. Double Columbines 3 Double inverted Columbines 4 Rose Columbines 5 Degenerate Columbines 6 Columbines of Virginia The Forme The Columbine hath divers pretty large spread Leaves standing upon stalks about a foot long wheÌ„ they are at their full growth every one being divided into divers parts with large indentures upon the edges of a dark blewish green colour a little resembling Celandine from amongst which arise stalks sometimes two or three foot high divided usually into many branches bearing one long divided leaf at the lower joynt above which the flowers grow every one standing on a long stalk consisting of five hollow Leaves crooked or horned at the ends and turning backwards The flowers being past there arise small long Cods four or five together wherein are contained black shining seedes The Roots are thick and round for a little space within the ground they abide many years sending forth their Leaves in the beginning of the Spring I mentioned not the colour of the flowers because they are so variable The Places and Time The first sort hath been found to grow wild in the woody mountains of Germany but with us they are found only in Gardens as the rest are their place being otherwise unknowne only that of the last which was brought from Virginia by that industrious searcher after rarities Mr. Tredescant the elder They flower commonly about the end of April and the beginning of May perish before the end of June only the Virginian kind flowreth a Month sooner then ordinary The Temperature Columbines are said to be temperate in respect of coldnesse and drynesse and moderately digesting The Vertues Every good Housewife in the Country is hardly now to learne that Columbine Leaves have in them a faculty wherey they are found very effectuall if they be boyled in Milk and given to those that are troubled with sore Mouths oâ— Throats but there be other wayes of using them for the like purposes as for the Kanker Red gum Quinsie Kings-evill c. For the Water Canker in the Mouth drink the seed For the Quinsie drink the seeds often with good Ale or stamp the seeds and herbs with Honey and take it with milk or drink It is good for young Children to drink it against the Red gum To help the Struma or painfull swelling in the Throat called the Kings evill seeth
sharp withall and somewhat clammy when they are ripe flat as it were at the lower end next the stalk whose skin is thicker and harder then a Plum and the stone within it is small firm and solid long round and solid like unto an Olive or Cornelian Cherry-stone both for form and hardnesse All the Branches both greater and smâ—ller are armed with Thorns two alwayes at a joynt whereof the one is long sâ—â—ong sharp pointed and straight and the other crooked both of them of a blackiâ—â— red colour like unto the elder Branches The Roots are long and firm in the Ground The Places and Time The first groweth naturally in Africa Egypt Arabia and Syria and those more Easterly Countries from whence as Pliny saith it was brought into Italy and planted there in his time by Sextus Rampinius in the latter end of Caesar Augustus his Raign which now a dayes is very frequent not only in many Gardens and Orchards of Italy but of Provence in France also It is so tender that it cannot endure long in our Countrey by reason of the cold The other likewise was brought into Italy in these later times from Syria where it is only to be seen and but with a few that are lovers of rarities The last groweth wild in the Fields by the Hedges not far from Verona abundantly as Pena saith They all shoot forth in April at which time the Seeds or Stones are to be set and sowen for increase They flowre in May and their fruit is ripe in September the Leaves falling off shortly after The Temperature Jujubes are temperate in heat and moysture The Vertues They open the Body and gently purge Choler and cleanse the Blood according to Actuarius and Simeon Sethi especially when they are fresh yet Matthiolus following the Opinion of Avicen denyeth that they have any purging quality in them at all But all Authours do agree that they cool the heat and sharpnesse of the Blood and therefore hold them to be good in hot Agues and to help them that have a Cough by bringing away tough flegme and are very profitable also for other Diseases of the Chest and Lungs as shortnesse of breath hot Rheums and Distillations proceeding from hot humours They are also to good purpose used to cleanse the Reins and Bladder from Gravel in making the passages slippery they also stay Vomitings procured by sharp humours But they are hard of digestion nourish very little and do not easily passe through the stomach and are therefore used in decoctions with other Ingredients fitting for the foresaid griefs CHAP. LXXXIV Of the Sebesten or Assyrian Plum-Tree The Names THere are also to be had at the Apothecaries Shops a certain kind of Plums called by them Sebestens in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 à muccoso fructus lentore 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 enim muccum significat The Tree whereon this Fruit groweth is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 in Latine Myxos for the Tree and Myxa and Myxaria for the Fruit. It is thought as Ruellius saith that the Syrians in honour of Augustus called them Sebastae from whence the Arabians called them Sebesten The Kindes The Sorts hereof are two 1. The Sebesten or Assyrian Plum-Tree 2. The wild Sebesten-Tree The Forme The Sebesten-tree groweth somewhat lower then the Plum-tree covered with a whitish Bark the Branches are green whereon grow rounder thicker and harder Leaves then those of the ordinary Plum-Tree the blossoms are white consisting of five Leaves a peece growing many together on a stalk which afterwards turn into small Berries rather then Plums of a blackish green colour when they are ripe every one standing in a little Cup of a sweet tast and glutinous and clammy substance and a very thick skin within which lyeth a three square hard stone with a thick Shell and a small Kernel these are gathered and layd in the Sun whereby they grow wrinckled and so they are kept and brought over unto us in Boxes The Places and Time The first groweth in Syria and is but planted in Egypt as Alpinus saith and from thence were brought into Italy in Pliny his time which were grafted on the Service Tree and do now grow in many places there in their Orchards it is so tender not enduring the cold with us that we can as hardly keep it as cause it to spring the Shell of the Stone being so thick and the Kernel so small The other as Alpinus seemeth to aver growth in Egypt naturally They flowre in May and their Fruit is gathered in September The Temperature Sebestens are temperately cold and moyst and have a thick clammy substance The Vertues They are very effectuall to lenifie or make smooth the hoarsnesse and roughnesse of the Throat which is caused by sharp humours which descend from the Head into the Wine-pipe galling it and fretting it so that unlesse there be means used to stop them and to prevent the Throat from corroding they will run down abundantly and with great force making the Patient to breath with great difficulty Neither are Sebestens good only for the Throat but also do very much help the Cough and wheesings of the Lungs and Distillations upon them by lenifying the passages and causing much flegme to be avoided They also give ease to them that are troubled with pains in their sides and marvellously helpeth those that are troubled with the sharpnesse of their Urine proceeding from Cho 〈…〉 or salt flegme they also drive forth the long worms of the Belly By the judgement both of the Arabians and Greek Physitians they open the body in the fame manner or rather more by reason of the Muscilaginesse in them than Damask Primes yet more when they are green and lesse when they are dry yet the decoction of them or the infusion of them in broth although dryed worketh effectually They serve to cool any intemperate heat of the Stomach or Liver and therefore are good in hot Agues and to purge Choler whereof they come 〈◊〉 saith that he hath found often by his experience that ten drams or twelve at the most of the pulp of Sebestans taken from the Skins and Stones worketh as well and to as good purpose as the pulp of Cassia fistula There is a kind of Birdlime made of these fruits by boyling them a little in water to take away their Skins and Stones and after boyling them more to a consistence the which as M 〈…〉 saith was used in V 〈…〉 to catch Birds but Alpinus saith they use it in Egypt as a Plaister to dissolve hard tumours or swellings CHAP. LXXXV Of Scabious The Names IT hath no Greek Name unless it be as some think that Herb which Aetius calleth 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 but few dare venter to say it is the same because there is nothing but the bare Name without any Description extant in him yet the Greek word signifieth Scabies in Latine It took the name of Scabiâ—sa
Pliny nameth it Lactuca Laconica Columella Lactuca Baetica Petrus Crescentius Lactuca Romana In English Cabbage Lettuce and Loved Lettuce There is another Sort with Reddish Leaves called Latine Lactuca Cypria in English Red Lettuce The Kindes Of Lettuce there be seaven kinds 1. Garden Lettuce 2. Curled Lettice 3. Small Curled Lettuce 4. Savoy Lettice 5. Cabbage Lettuce 6. Lumbard Lettuce 7. Red Lettuce to which it will not be amisse to add Lambs Lettuce or Corn Sallet which is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 in Latine Album Olus Lactuca Agnina whose description I shall give you because the other Sorts are more generally known The Forme Lambs Lettuce hath many slender weak stalks trailing upon the ground growing to the height of a foot if the ground be very fertil but otherwise not above an hand or two high with sundry Joynts or Knees out of every one whereof grow a couple of Leaves narrow and long not unlike to Lettuce at the first coming up as well in tendernesse as tast in eating the form being somewhat like that of Valerian for a kind whereof it hath been set forth by some On the top of the stalks stand upon a broad tuft as it were certain white Flowers that be marvellous little which canscarcely be known to be Flowers saving that they grow many together like a Tuft or Umbel it hath instead of Roots a few slender threds like unto hairs The Places and Time All the Sorts of Lettuces are nursed up in Gardens but none so commonly as the first which is sowen in every Garden Most of the others are scarce known to the common Sort of people yet some that are curious have them They delight to grow in a manured fat moyst and well dunged Soil and will prosper the better if they be sowen very thin and in faire weather The best time of sowing them is in the Spring presently after the winter is spent yet they may be sowed all the Summer long The Lambs Lettice groweth naturally in many Corn Fields and hath thence been brought into the Gardens of thoâ—e that know it and its use It is found green almost Winter and Summer and is eaten in Sallets in February and March before the Garden Lettice can be had The Temperature Although these sorts of Lettice do differ in form one from another yet their temperature is the same which is cold and moyst in the second or third Degree The Signature and Vertues The Milky juyce which Issueth forth from the wounded stalkes and Leaves is a sufficient Signature that this Herb if it be eaten boyled or raw maketh plenty of milke in Nurses who through heat and drynesse are not stored with a competency thereof for it breedeth Milke by tempering the drynesse and heat but in Bodies naturally cold it doth not ingender milke at all but is rather an hinderance thereunto so that it will be necessary to examine the Constitution of the party before any thing can be prescribed If this defect happen in a dry body there is nothing better then Lettuce but if in a cold one then hot things as Nigell Fennell and Dill will be proper because diseases are cured by their Contraries It is also good for a hot Stomack and yeildeth good nourishment to the Body Antonius Musa did by Lettuce ease Augustus of the Violence of his Disease It procureth rest and sleep being taken raw or boyled it helpeth to loosen the belly and the boyled more then the raw which last eaten performeth it the better and was generally so used by the Ancients It helpeth digestion quencheth thirst easeth all griping paines of the Stomack or bowells that come of Choler it abateth bodily lust and tempereth the heat of Urine the seeds and distilled water are good for the virulent running of the Reines for the heat of the Urine as also for the foresaid purposes But for procuring rest and sleep and easing the headach if it proceeds from an hot cause it will be convenient that the juice of Lettuce be mixed or boyled with oyle of Roses and applyed to the Forehead and Temples with applyed Champhir to the Cods it abateth the heat of Lust or applyed to the same manner to the Region of the Heart Liver or the Reins or by bathing the said place with the juyce or distilled water wherein some white Sanders red Roses are put doth abate the heat Inflammations therein as also strengthen those parts The Lambs Lettice is with pleasure eaten with vinegar Salt and oyle as other Sallets be amongst which is none of the rest And let thus much suffice to be written concerning those plants which cause Milk for which purpose Sowthistle Rocket Anemonies and divers other plants are effectuall some whereof are already and the rest shall be hereafter handled In the next place it will be convenient to speake of those that dry up Milke in Womens Breast when they weane their Children or be overcharged with abundance of Milke and those also that keep it from Curdling and dissolve the tumors of the Breasts CHAP. XCVIII Of Fennell Gyant The Names THe Grecians called the greater sort 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and the least 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 which Gaza in his Translation of Theophrastus calleth Ferula and Ferulago in Latine The Greek name Signifieth Thyrsum Virgultum Bacillum the ancients using the stalks of it which grow to be very strong and Substantiall for props to hold up the weaker Sort of Plants and for staves for old men to walk with The Latine name is derived à feriendo because the said stalks were used by School-masters for their Sceptra Paedagogica and with them did smite the hands or heads of their Idle and truant Schollers and therefore Martiall calleth them tristes ferulas This Herb growing in Cyrene of Africa nigh to the Oracle of Jupiter Ammon bringeth forth a Gum which is therefore called Ammoniacum as some think when it groweth in Media it bringeth forth Sagapenum and in Syria Galbanum Of the two last I shall treat elsewhere but of the first which groweth in Cyrene I shall principally take notice of because it dryeth up milk The Kindes There be three Sorts of Fennel Gyant 1. Fine leafed Fennel Gyant 2. The broader leased Fennel Gyant 3. Small Fennel Gyant The Form Fennel Gyant bringeth forth sundry large hollow Fungous thick branched stalks of very light fine thin for substance but thick set leaves placed out of order the bottom of the stalks being as thick as ones finger but compassing one another with broad thin hollowish Skins at the bottom from amongst which riseth up a strong stalk eight or ten foot in its naturall soil but with us it seldom riseth higher then a yard and a half or two yards high sometimes as big as a great Cudgel set with divers such fine Leaves thereon one above another compassing the stalk at the bottom out of the bosom whereof come forth severall small Branches towards the tops
and Vinegar and some Oyl put thereto ceaseth both the pain and swelling of the Cods and being taken inwardly it stirreth up Lust in those which cannot use the act of Generation because of the sluggish impotency and weakness of their Members which it doth by Signature a Bean very much resembling the Nut of a Mans yard and that was the Reason that Pythagoras so much condemned them their windiness causing Lust which he endeavoured to suppress If fryed Beans be boyled with Garlick and daily taken as meat it helpeth inveterate Coughs almost past cure the hoarsneâ— of the voyce and the Impostumes in the Breast The Husks of them boyled good while in water that is to the thirds stayeth the Lask and the ashes of the said Husks made up with old Hogs-grease helpeth the old pains contusions anâ— wounds of the Sinews the Sciatica also and the Gout Though the Faba veterum be without doubt that true Bean which Dâ—oscorides Galen and other Greek Authours intended when they set down the aforesaid Remedies yet our ordinary Bean-flowre is as proper for all those purposes and may be used to as gooâ— effect CHAP. CII Of Lentills The Names THere is another Sort of Pulse which may be appropriated to the same purpose which the Grecians called 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Phacos and in Latine Lens Lenticula Pliny saith Lib. 18. Chap. 12. that the Etymon thereof seemeth to be taken quasi lenis dicta sit lenitatisque significationem habet aquanimitatem fieri vescentibus eâ It is seldom used for Mans meat here in England and therefore I cannot justifie any such operation it hath unless he meant it of Cattle who are much pleased with it and for their Food it is sowed in divers Countries In Hampshire they leave out the first syllable and call it Tills and in Oxfordshire Dills The Kinds Of these Lentills I find but three Sorts 1. The greater Lentills 2. Spotted Lentills 3. The lesser Lentill The Forme The greater Lentill hath sundry slender weak Branches somewhat hard two foot long from whence shoot forth at severall places long stalks of small winged Leaves that is many on each side of a middle Rib without any odd one at the end for the middle Rib of each stalk endeth in a small clasper the Flowers are small and rise from between the leaves and the stalks two for the most part at the end of a long foot-stalk of a sad reddish purple colour somewhat like to those of Vetches after which come small short and somewhat flat Cods within which are contained two or three flat round smooth Seeds of a pale yellowish ash colour the Root is fibrous and perisheth yearly The Places and Time The first even beyond the Seas is onely sowne in the Fields as other manured pulses are and so likewise in some places of our Land but doth seldom come to maturity with us if the season be not kindly and dry The second is wild in Portugall The last is most common in England and is sowne in severall Counties thereof being the most pleasant and acceptable The Temperature Galen saith that Lentills hold a mean between hot and cold yet do they dry in the second degree the outer Skin being binding and the inner meat also which is a little harsh and bindeth the Body yet the outer Skin much more it is saith he of contrary qualities for the first decoction thereof doth not bind but loosen the body and therefore they that would have it to bind cast away the first water and use the second which stayeth Lasks and strengtheneth the stomack and all the inward parts Lentils husked saith he lose with their shells the strength of binding and the other qualities that follow it and then nourish more then those that are not husked yet so give they a thick and evill nourishment and slowly passe away neither do they stay Fluxes and Dysenteries as those that are not husked The Vertues The Seeds of the Lentils boyled in Sea-water and applyed to Womens Breasts that are ready to burst through abundance of Milk or have it curdled within them by any cold distemper bringeth them again into good temper It is good also to bind and stay Lasks and Fluxes but with other binding Herbs as Purslane Red Beets Myrtles Dryed Roses Pomegranate Rindes Medlars Servises c. taken with Vinegar they are the more powerful The Decoction thereof with Wheat-flowre applyed easeth the Gout used with Honey it closeth up the lips of Wounds and cleanseth foul Sores being boyled in Vinegar it dissolveth Knots and Kernels and being boyled with Quinces Melilote and a little Rose-water put thereto it helpeth the Inflammations of the Eys and Fundament but for the chaps thereof which need a stronger Medicine it is boyled with dryed Roses and Pomegranate Rindes adding a little Honey to it It likewise stayeth those creeping Cankers that are ready to turn to a Gangrene putting thereto some sea-Sea-water and so it is good for Wheals and running and watering Sores St. Anthonies Fire Kibes c. being used with Vinegar The Decoction thereof is a good lotion for Ulcers either in the mouth privy parts or Fundament adding a few Rose Leaves and Quinces But to eat Lentills or the broth made of them too largely as Galen saith breedeth the Leprosie and Cankers for grosse thick Meat is fit to breed melancholy humours yet it is profitably given to those that are of a watery disposition and evill affected thereby but it is utterly forbidden to those that have dry Constitutions it is also hurtful to the sight dulling it by drying up the moysture and is not convenient for Women that want their Courses but is good for those that have them in too much abundance Dioscorides further addeth that it breedeth troublesome Dreams and is hurtful to the Head the Lungs and the Sinews CHAP. CIII Of Lillies The Names THe Lilly is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 in Latine Lilium also Rosa Junonis or Junoes Rose because it is reported that it came of her Milk that fell upon the ground For the Poets feign that Hercules whom Jupiter had by Alcumena was put to Junoes Breasts whilest she was asleep and after the sucking there fell away abundance of Milk and that one part was spilt in the Heavens and the other on the Earth and that of this sprang the Lilly and the Circle in Heaven called Lactens Circulus or the milky way or otherwise in English The way to Watling-street Thus much for the white Lilly As for the other Sorts which are many I shall only put down some of them The Kindes Though there be divers Sorts of Lillies yet I shall only set down these 1. The white Lilly 2. The white Lilly of Constantinople 3. The gold red Lilly 4. The red Lilly 5. The fiery red Lilly 6. The great Mountain Lilly 7. The small Mountain Lilly 8. The red Lilly of Constantinople 9. The Persian Lilly 10.
and pleasant in Sallets as there is no Herb comparable unto it and giveth a better rellish to those it is put with the Seeds while they are fresh and green sliced and put among other Herbs make them tast very pleasant the Root boyled and eaten with Oyl and Vinegar or without Oyl if any one mislike it doth much please and warm a cold or old stomack oppressed with flegm or wind and those that have the Ptisick and Consumption of the Lungs The Lungs and the particular Diseases thereof being thus spoken to I shall descend unto the Heart which is the first thing in a Man that lives and the last that dies upon the wel-fare whereof the wel-fare of all other parts depends and therefore especially to be provided for so that I shall muster up a little Regiment of Simples to defend it from those poysonous enemies which would otherwise assault it to the endangering of the whâ—le Microcosme And I shall begin with Angelica because it relates both to that which goes before and that which comes after CHAP. CXVIII Of Angelica The Names IT is not yet known whether any of the Ancients knew this Herb or by what name the Greeks did call it however it hath gained many worthy names of the Latine Writers for some have called it Sancti Spiritus radix and have been blamed for it already others Lacuna and Dodonaeus thinketh it to be some kind of Laserpitium some have taken it to be Smyrnium and some Panax Heracleum but generally it is called Angelica for the rare smell and Angel-like properties therein and that name it retains still all Nations following it so near as their Dialect will permit The Kinds Former times knew but two sorts hereof but now there are sound out two more 1. Garden Angelica 2. Wild Angelica 3. Mountaine Wild Angelica 4. The great Water Angelica The Forme The Garden Angelica hath divers large and fair spread and winged Leaves half a yard long or better sometimes made of many great and broad ones set usually one against another on a middle rib of a pale but fresh green Colour and dented about the edges from among which usually riseth but oâ—e round hollow stalk being very thick and four or five foot high with divers great joynts and Leaves set on them whose foot-stalks do compasse the main stalk at the bottom and from thence also towards the top come forth branches with the like but lesser Leaves at them and at their tops large round spread umbels of white flowers after which cometh the seed which is somewhat flat thick short and whitish two alwayes set together as is usuall in all these umbelliferous plants and a little crested on the round seed the root groweth great and wooddy when it flowreth with many great long branches to it but perisheth after seed which being suffered to fall of its own accord will more certainly grow then that which is gathered and sown by hand at any other time The Places and Time The first is very Common in our English Gardens and was brought hither as is conceived from beyond the Seas or from the Rocks not far from Barwick upon which it groweth It is found in great plenty in Norway and in an Island of the North call Iceland where it groweth very high and is eaten of those that come into that Country for want of other food the bark being pilled off It groweth likewise in divers mountains of Germany and especially of Bohemia The second Sort is wild both in many places of Essex Kent and neer Kentish-Town by London and in other places The third groweth on divers mountains of Germany and Hungary The last is not onely naturall to grow in watery ditches but in moist grounds also in most places of England They flower in Iuly and August whose roots for the most part do perish after the seed is ripe and therefore they which desire to preserve them must keep it from seeding by cutting off the Leaves to Still and so both the root and plant may be continued divers years together The Temperature Angelica especially that of the Garden is hot and dry some put it in the second and others in the third degree howsoever it openeth attenuateth or maketh thin digesteth and procureth sweat The whole plant both Leaf and Seed and Root is of an excellent pleasant scent and tast very comfortable being not fierce or sharp but rather sweet and giveth a most delicate relish when it is tasted or used the Leaves be the weakest and some hold the seed to be next and the root to be the strongest especially being not ready to grow up for stalk The Vertues If the Root of Angelica be taken in powder to the weight of half a dram at a time with some good Treacle in Carduus water or if treacle be not at hand take the root alone in Carduus or Angelica water and sweat thereupon it reâ—steth poyson by defending the Heart the blood and spirits and giveth heat and Comfort to them and it doth the like against the Plague and Infection of the Pestilence and so do the stalks or roots candyed and eaten fasting at such times and also at other times to warme and Coâ—â—ort a cold and old stomack The root also steeped in Vinegar and a little of that Vinegar taken sometimes fasting and the root smelled unto are both good Preservatives also for the same purpose A water distilled from the Root simply or steeped in Wine and distilled in glasse is much more effectuall then the water of the leaves and this water drunk two or three spoonfulls at a time eaâ—eth all paines and torments coming of Cold and Wind so as the body be not bound and some of the root taken in powder at the beginning helpeth the Plâ—urisie and all other diseases of the Lungs and Breast as Coughs Pthisick and Shortnesse of breath and a Syrup of the stalks doth the like It helpeth likewise the torments of the Colick the Strangury and stopping of the Urin procureth womens Courses expelleth the Afterbirth openeth the obstructions oâ— the Liver and spleen and briefly easeth and discusseth all inward tumors and windinesse The decoction drunk before the fit oâ— an Ague that they may sweat if possible before the fit come will in two or three times taking rid it quite away it helps digestion and is a remedy for a surfit The juyce or the water being dropped into the eyes or eares helps dimnesse of sight and deafnesse and the juyce put into an hollow Tooth easeth the paines The roots in powder made up into a Plaister with a little pitch and laid on the biting of a mad dog or any other Venemous Creature doth wonderfully help The juyce or the water dropped or Tents wet therein and put into old filthy deep Ulcers or the powder of the Root in want of either doth cleanse them and cause them to heale quickly by covering the naked Bones with flesh The distilled water applyed to places pained
The four first sorts are usuall in Gardens the fift was found upon Mount Baldus as also upon the Vaganean hills in Narbone the sixth was found in Spaine by Boel The Seaventh in Itady by Dr. Mera The Eight came from Virginia The Ninth from Yorkeshire The Tenth grows under Hedges and Bushes almost every where the last in the Corne fields and in such as ly Ley and in the borders of other fields The Violets Flower in February and March and after them the Pansies till the end of July The Temperature The Garden Violets and so likewise the Wild kinds are cold and moist whil'st they are fresh and green The Vertues The Flowers of Violets as well as those of Borage are reckoned to be cheife Cordiall Flowers and are much used in Cordiall drinks powders and other Medicines especially where cooling Cordialls as Roses and Saunders are used They are used to coole any heate or distemperature of the Body either inwardly or outwardly in the Inflammation of the Eyes in the Womb and Fundament when they are fallen down and are full of paine Imposthums also and hot Swellings to drinke the decoction of the Leaves of Flowers made with Water or Wine or to apply them pultis wise to the place that is grieved It likewise easeth paines in the Head which are caused through want of sleep A dram of the dryed Leaves of the Flowers of Violets doth purge the body of Cholericke humors and asswageth the heat being taken in a draught of Wine or other drink The pouder of the Leaves of the purple Flowers only pickt and dryed and drunk in powder with Water is said to help the Quinsie and the Falling sicknesse in Children especially in the beginning of the Disease The Flowers of the white Violets ripen and dissolve Swellings The seed being taken resisteth the poyson of the Scorpion The Herb or Flowers whil'st they are fresh or the Flowers when they are dry are effectuall in the Pleurisy and all other diseases of the Lungs to lenify the sharpnesse of hot Rheums and the hoarsenesse of the Throat the heat also of the Urine and the sharpnesse thereof and all paines of the back or reines or bladder They are good also for the Liver and the Jaundise and in all hot Agues helping to coole the heat and quench thirst But the Syrup of Violets is of most use and of better effect being taken in some convenient Liquor and if a little of the Juice or Syrup of Lemons be put to it or a few drops of the Oyle of Vitriall it is made thereby the more powerfull to coole the heat and to quench the thirst and besides the effect giveth to the drink both a Claret Wine colour and a pleasant tast Violets taken or made up with honey do more clense then coole and with Sugar contrarywise The Leaves of Violets are used in cooling Plaisters Oyls Cataplasms or Pultises and are of great efficacy among other Herbs as Mercury Mallowes c. to be put in Clysters CHAP. CXXII Of Straw-berries The Names THe whole Plant is called Fragraria and the Berries Fraga à fructus fragrantia odoris gustus for it hath no certain Greek name yet there are some which think it to be 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 that is Rubus Idaus because it hath no prickles which Opinion Fuchsius saith is not to be despised Others say that they called it 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 because of the â—ikeness of the fruit with that of the Tree-Strawberry Servius calleth them Mora terrestria Ground Mulberries because they are somewhat like those that grow on Trees The Kindes I have not yet met with any more then six sorts of Straw-berries 1. Red Straw-berries 2. White Straw-berries 3. Small Straw-berries with hard Leaves 4. Flat Straw-berries 5. Dwarf Straw-berries 6. Barren or unprofitable Straw-berries The Form I know not whether the Dwarf-Straw-berry be brought over in England yet I shall venter to give you so much of its Description as Parkinson hath set down choosing rather to give you the Description of a strange Plant then of the others which are so commonly known It hath very small triparted Leaves next the ground closer set together upon short foot-stalks then any other and those that are set on both sides of the long branch not above four inches long which lyeth creeping on the ground grow lesse and without stalk the Flower standeth at the end of the Branch many times but one at a place which consisteth of five round Leaves like a Straw-berry but larger then agreeth with the proportion of the Plant and is of a yellowish colour what fruit it beareth is not set down The Places and Time The two first grow in Gardens though 't is probable they were brought out of the Woods where they do most delight yet being set in a rich soyl they become far greater The three next grow upon divers of the Alps and other places of Germany The last is to be found in our own Land in most Woods and the Field sides near unto them in Cornwall as Lobel saith and in other places also They flower in May or thereabouts most commonly and are ripe in June but I have seen ripe Straw-berries after Michaelmas also The Temperature The Leaves of them are cooling in the first Degree and yet some say they are hot and drying in the second the Root is more drying and binding the Berries whâ—â—e they are green are cold and dry but when they are ripe they are coâ—d and moyst The Vertues and Signature The water of the Berries carefully distilled is a soveraign remedy and Cordiall in the paâ—pitations of the heart that is the panting and beating of the heart and is good for the over-flowing of the Gall which causeth the yeâ—â—ow Jaundise The Berries themselves are exâ—eâ—ent good to cool the Liver tâ—e Bâ—ood and Spleen or an hot choâ—eriâ—k sâ—omach to refresh and comfort the â—ainting Spirits and to quench thirst They are good also for other Inflammations yet it 〈…〉 veth one to be caâ—telous or rather to refrain them in a Feaver 〈◊〉 by theâ— putriâ—ying in the â—â—omaâ—h they increase the Fits and make them to be 〈…〉 ore fierâ—e The Leaves and Roots boyled in Wine and Water as drunk do likewiâ—e cooâ— the Liver and Blood and asswage al Inflammations in the Reins and Bladder provoketh Urine and allayeth the heat and sharpness thereof the same also beinâ— drunk stayeth the Bloody Flux and Womens Coâ—â—es and helpeth the swelâ—ings of the Spâ—een The Juyce dropped into foul Ulcers or they washed therewith or with the decoction of the Herb and Root doth wonderfully cleanse them and heâ—p to cure them All Lotions and Gargles that are made for sore mouths or Ulcers therein or in the privy parts or else-where are made with the Leaves and Roots heâ—eof which is good also to fasten loose Teeth and to heal spungy foul â—ums The same also helpeth to stay Catarrhs or Defluxions of Rheum into the Mouth Throat Teeth
famous Doctor of Physick whom the Greeks called 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Some Bastard Names it hath also as 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 quasi Hederula and 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 quasi Hederula folium the form of the Leaves being like unto Ivy. Ruellius calleth it Hederalis in Latine but it is better known by the Names of Asclepias and Vincetâ—xicum which last is a generall word for any Counter-poyson and commeth from Vincâ— to over-come and Toxicum Poyson It was anciently called Hirundinaria although both the kinds of Chelidonium majus and minus be called Hirundinaria that is Swallon-vvort ab Hirundine from a Swallow because the pointed Cods when they are open and the Silk appeareth out of them do somewhat resemble a Swallow flying Others say from the Seed which is feathered as it were with Down about it In English it is called Svvallovv-vvort and of some Silken Cicely The Kinds There be only three Sorts of Swallow-wort that I can find 1. Swallow-wort with white Flowers 2. Swallow-wort with black Flowers 3. Swallow-wort of Candy The Form The Swallow-wort with white-flowers riseth up with divers slender weake stalkes to be halfe a yard or two foot long not easy to break yet scarce able to stand upright and therefore for the most part leane or lye down upon the ground if they find not some thing to sustaine them and then somtimes they will twine themselves about it whereon are set two leaves at the joynts being somwhat broad and long pointed at the end of a darke green colour and smooth at the edges at the joynts with the Leaves towards the top of the stalkes and at the tops themselves come forth divers small white flowers consisting of five pointed leaves a piece of an heavy sweet sent after wich come small long pods thick above and growing lesse and lesse to the point wherein by small flat brown seed wrapped in a great deale of white silken down which when the pod is ripe openeth of it selfe and sheddeth both seed and cotton upon the ground if it be not carefully gathered the roots are a great bush of many white strings fastned together at the head smelling somewhat strong while they are fresh and green but more pleasant when they are dryed both leaves and stalkes dye down every yeare to the ground and rise a new in the Spring the stalkes at their first coming up being of a blackish brown colour The Places and Time One or two if not all of these sorts grow in the Physick Garden at Oxford but as for their naturall places the two first grow in rough untilled places and on Mountaines in divers places both in France about Narbone Marscilles and Mompelier and in Italy also and in other places The last grow in Candy whence the seed came which being sowne groweth with us They all flower in the moneths of June and July and somtimes not untill August if the yeare be backward and their Cods with seed are ripe about a Moneth after the empty huske abiding on the dry branches when the seed and silk is shed out and fallen on the ground or blown away with the wind The Temperature The rootes of Swallow-wort are hot and dry and have a soveraigne quality against all poysons but in particular against the Apocinum or Dogsbane The Vertues A Dram of the powder of the roots of Swallow-wort taken in Sorrell or Bnglosse water is very effectuall against all the passions of the heart and if a few Citron seeds be taken therewith in the same manner and measure it easeth all the griping paines of the belly It is likewise effectually given to any that are bitten by any venemous beast or stung by any Serpent or other Creature as also against the biting of a mad dog a dram and an halfe of the root being taken in Carduus water for divers dayes together It is taken also in Wine every day against the Plague or Pestilence The decoction of the rootes made with white-Wine taken for divers dayes together a good draught at a time and sweating presently thereupon cureth the Dropâ—y the same also helpeth the Jaundise provoketh Urine and eaâ—eth the Cough and all defects of the Chest and Lungs The powder of the Rootes taken with Peony seed is good against the Falling sicknesse or what Basil seed or the rind of Pome Citrons is good against Melancholy Taken with the roots of White or Bastard Dâ—ttany it killeth and expelleth the Wormes of the Maw and Belly The rootes are very effectually used with other things in Bathes made for women to â—t over to ease all paines of the Mother and bring down their courses The Decoction likewise of the Roots hereof and of Comfrey made with wine is much commended to help those that are bursten or have a rupture and for them that have bin bruised with a fall or otherwise The powder of the root or leaves is no lesse effectuall to cleanse all putrid rotten and filthy Ulcers and soâ—es wheresoever then the Roots of Aristolochia or Birthwort and may safely be used in all Salves Unguents and Lotions made for such purposes instead thereof the one for the other The Leaves and Flowers boyled and made into a pultis applyed to the hard tumors or swellings of womens Breasts cureth them speedily as also such evil sores as happen in the Matrix although they be inveterate or hard to be cured The Down that is found in the Cods of these herbs doth make a softer stuffing for Cushions or Pillows or the like than thistle down which is much used in some places for the like purposes CHAP. CXXVII Of Goates-Rue The Names THis Hearb being unknown to the Antient Authors hath no Greek Name in Latin it is usually called Galega or Ruta Capraria For they that first found it and the vertues gave that Name of Rue thereunto as finding it no lesse effectuall then the Best Rue and Capraria because it is good for Goates Some call it Gralega and some Herba Gallica as Fracastorius and of some Capraria Some with us call it Italian-Vetch but most Commonly Goates Rue The Kinds The Sorts hereof are but two 1. Common Goates Rue 2. Mountain Goats Rue The Forme The Common or most usuall Goates Rue sendeth forth many round hard stalks three or four foot high whereon grow one above another at severall Joynts Long winged Leaves that is many Leaves set one each side of a middle rib which are small yet somewhat broad and long and pointed at the end smooth on the Edges without any dents somewhat like unto the Leaves of Vetches and of a faint green Colour at the topps of the stalks stand many small Leguminous flowers one above another of a pale blewish purple Colour and in some plants pure white after which come small round pods about â—n inch and an half long a little bunched out in some places but nothing so much as the Orobus or Bitter Vetch wherein lie three or four or five small pale seed
like unto a Vetch The root is white and wooddy spreading well in the ground and abiding divers yeares The Places and Time The first groweth in divers Gardens of this Land as in the Physick Gardens so often mentioned and very plentifully in a Garden at St. Albans not farr from the Prison sometimes in the possession of Dr. Arris who was a great admiâ—er of the same for its Cordia vertues It groweth Naturally by the way sides of moist fields and Meadows both in Italy Savoy and other places and hath also bin found some years since in the Meadows by Linton in Cambridgeshire The other is said onely to grow upon the tops of mountaines They flower in the end of Iune and Iuly and the seed is ripe in August The Temperature Goates Rue is said to be of a mean Temperature between hot and cold The Vertues There is not any Plant more effectuall to preserve the heart from Palpitations tremblings and sownings and against Melanchosicke Vapours oppressing it then Goates Rue which is a great Preservative also against the bitings or stings of any venemous Creatures yea those Italians as Pena and Lobel say and others that use to gather Vipers will use it rather then the Beast-Treacle to defend themselves from being bitten or stung by them or to preserve them from any other infection and therefore eat it continually as other Hearbs in Sallets or otherwise in their meates and broths It is likewise very powerfull against any poyson taken inwardly the Pestilence or any infectious or pestilentious Feavers or diseases that break forth into spots or marks as the Measells Purples and the Small-Pox in all which it is admirable both to preserve from infection and cure those that are infected to take every morning some of the juyce thereof as also to eat the Hearb it self every morning fasting but it will be the more effectuall if the juyce be taken with a little good Treacle and some Tormentill Roots in powder mixed with Carduus Benedictus water or with some Vinegar and fine Bolearmonick and Treakle in the said Water and presently to sweat two houres thereupon which it causeth in some sort it self A spoonfull of the juyce given in a morning fasting is very effectuaâ—l to kill the wormes in Children or the Hearb it self fryed with a little Oyl of bitter Almonds and laid hot unto the Navill as also to help the Falling-Sicknesse before it grow strong and old upon them It is very profitably applyed to the belly pained with the griping of the wind and Collick being fryed and laid-to warme In the same manner laid unto plague Sores before they be broken it either disperseth them yet defending the heart not striking it inwardly or draweth them forth and healeth them It is also effectually applyed with Vinegar to Gangrenes running Ulcers and Sores to stay the malignity in their fretting and spreading and to defend the vitall Spirits from danger Some use a Syrupe made of the juyce and some of the distilled water as a more familiar Medicine to take upon all occasions inwardly for all the purposes aforesaids And some use to make an Oyle of the Flowers digested in the Sun by often repetitions of infusion to annoint the wrests of the hands where the pulse is felt as also the region of the heart to defend it from the diseases aforesaid and danger of infection It is no lesse effectuall for Sheep Goates and other Cattell by the experiments that Goat-heards have made herewith The Mountain Goates-Rue is held almost as effectuall against poyson and the pestilence as the former CHAP. CXXVIII Of Vipers-Grasse The Names IT was found and the Vertues thereof discovered but of late dayes by a Mauritanian bondslave who holpe divers that were bitten of that Venemous Beast or Viper as it is called by others which they of Catalonia where they breed in abundance call in their Language Escuersos from whence Scorzonera is derived with the juyce of this Herb and the root given them to eate which both took away the poyson and healed the bitten place very quickly when Treacle and other things would do no good which ever since hath grown in estimation both against Venome and other diseases also It is called in Lattin Viperaria Viperina or Serpentaria but most Commonly Scorzonera which name is generally given it by all Nations We in English call it Scorzonera and Vipers-grasse The Kinds I find Ten Sorts of Vipers-grasse rekonned up by Authors 1. Common Vipers grasse 2. Dwarfe Vipers grasse 3. Spanish Vipers grasse 4. Dwarfe Spanish Vipers grasse 5. The greater Hungarian broad leafed Vipers grasse 6. The Dwarfe Hungarian Vipers grasse 7. The small Hungarian Vipers grasse 8. Purple Vipers grasse 9. Tall Narrow Leaved purple Vipers grasse 10. Vipers grasse of Sclavony The Forme The first of the Vipers grasses hath long broad leaves fat or full bodyed uneven about the edges sharp pointed with an high swoln rib down the middle and of an overworn green colour tending to that of Woad amongst which riseth up a stiffe stalk smooth and plaine of two cubits high whereon do grow such leaves as those next the ground The flowers stand on the top of the Stalks consisting of many small yellow leaves thick thrust together very double like unto those of Tragopogon or Goates-beard whereof most think it to be a kind The Root is long thick very brittle continueth many yeares yeelding great increase of roots black without white within and yeeldeth a milky juyce as do the leaves also like unto the Goates-beards The Places and time Many of the Sorts aforesaid are to be found in the Gardens of some Physitians and Apothecaries who know the worth of them as also in the Physick Gardens at Oxford and Westminster but especially the two first The Third and Fourth in Spain as their titles do declare The fifth in many places of Germany Bohemia and Hungary The Sixth on the hills by Baden in Germany The Seventh in many of the same places with the Fifth The Eighth and Ninth on a small hill nigh unto Stampfen which is two Duch miles from Posonium a chief Citty in Hungary The last in Illyria or Sclavony as Alpinus saith They do all flower in May and their seed is ripe before the end of June The Temperature Vâ—pers-Grasse is thought not to exceed the first Degree of heat and moysture which are the predominant qualities The Vertues and Signature The water of this Herb distilled in Glasses or the Root it self taken is good against the passions and tremblings of the heart and also against swounings sadness and melancholy the same also is a present remedy against all contagious Feavers for by causing sweat the infection is evaporated and the sick person restored The Root preserved and taken fasting â—or the said water drunk for some dayes together doth open the obstructions of the Liver Spleen and other inward parts as also helpeth to bring down Womens Courses and to ease the suffocation or other Diseases of
singular Vertues that it hath in English Holy Thistle and Blessed Thistle but more commonly Carduus Benedictus according to the Latine name Some excellently seen in the knowledge of Simples have made it a kind of Wild Bastard Saffron called in Latine Attractilis and in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 because Women in old time were wont to use the stiffe stalk thereof pro fuso colo for a Spindle or a Distaffe It is named also Fucus agrestis and Colus rustica and the Women in Greece as Petrus Bellonius reporteth call Attractylis by a corrupt name Ardactyla even at this day Divers call it Carthamus Sylvestris Cnicus Sylvestris in English Wild Bastard Saffron The Kinds The Sorts hereof as you have already heard are two 1. Carduus Benedictus or the Blessed Thistle 2. Attractylis or Wild Bastard Saffron The Form Carduus Benedictus or Blessed Thistle hath round rough and plyable stalks which being parted into divers Branches do lie flat on the ground the leaves are jagged round about and full of harmless prickles on the edges the heads on the tops of the stalks are set with prickles and invironed with sharp pricking Leaves out of which standeth a yellow Flower the Seed is long and set with white hairs at the top like a Beard the Root is white and parted into strings the whole Herb Leaves and Stalks and also the Heads are covered with a soft and thin Down The Places and Time The first groweth naturally in Lemâ—os which is an Island of the Mediterraâ—ean Sea in the Champion grounds thereof as Petrus Bellonius testifieth It is diligently cherished in Gardens in these Northern parts The second groweth in Candy and in divers Provinces and Islands of Greece and also in Languedock and is entertained in our English Gardens The first flowreth in July and August at which time it is especially to be gathered for Physicall uses for then it will remain good a year or longer Attractylis is very late before it flowreth and seedeth The Temperature As Carduus Benedictus is bitter so it is also hot and dry in the second Degree and withall cleansing and opening Attractylis doth dry and moderately digest as Galen teacheth The Signature and Vertues By the Prickles upon the Stalks and Leaves of Carduus are clearly signified that the herb it self is an excellent remedy for the Pleurisie and Stâ—â—ches wherewith the sides are somtimes distempered if the Decoction in posset drink or the distilled water thereof be taken It helpeth also the swimming of the head strengtheneth the memory and is a good remedy against ceaâ—nesse killeth wormes provoketh Urine and the Courses and driveth out gravel and cleanseth the Stomack It is most excellent in Pestilent Feavers and all contagious Diâ—eases for it expelleth out by sweat all noxious or ill humours It is very good in any kind of Ague either the decoction thereof being taken or half a dram of the Powder in Posset-drink before the fit commeth for divers fits if need require and sweat after it It is very available likewise against Venome and poyson Though the distilled water is useful for the aforesaid Diseases yet the decoction is much better The extract thereof is good against the French Pox and the Quartan Ague The green Herb bruised and applyed is good against hot swellings as Wild-fire Plague-Sores Botches and it is good also to be laid upon the bitings of mad Dogs Serpents Spiders Bees or Wasps or any other venomous Creature The Powder stoppeth blood at the Nose being applyed The juyce thereof cleareth the sight being put into the Eyes and taketh away the redness of them and so doth the water Being bruised with a little Hogs-grease and a little Wheat mixed therewith it cures stubborn and rebellious Ulcers if it be applyed thereto It is used against the Gangrene also For all which notable effects it hath been called Omnimorbia that is a Salve for every Sore CHAP. CLX Of our Ladies Thistle The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 if divers Authours be not mistaken being as is generally supposed that Plant that Dioscorides mentioneth under that name It is called in Latine Carduus Lacteus and Carduus Mariae in English Our Ladies Thistle or the Striped Milky Thistle Some think it to be Leucacantha or Spina Alba of the Antients others take it to be Leucographis Plinii Brunfelfius calleth it Carduus Albus and Camaeleon Matthiolus and Lobel Carduus Lacteus some Carduus Argentatus and Carduus Ramptarius others Carduus Leucographus and Silybum and Acanon Theophrasti The Kinds Although formerly there have been but one sort hereof known to the Herbarists yet of late by the diligent search and observation of some that have been curious there are found of them three in all 1. The common Ladies Thistle 2. Great milky Thistle of a year 3. The small Spanish milk-Thistle The Form The Common Ladies Thistle hath divers very large and broad leaves lying on the ground cut in and as it were crumpled but somewhat hairy on the edges and of a white green shining colour wherein are many lines and strakes of a milky white colour running all over and set with many sharp and stiffe prickles round about amongst which rise up one or more strong round and prickly stalks set full of the like leaves up to the top where at the end of every branch commeth forth a great prickly Thistle-like head strongly armed with pricks and with bright Purple Thrums rising out of the middle of them after they are past the Seed groweth in the said heads lying in a great deal of fine soft white Down which is somewhat flattish and shining large and brown the Root is great spreading in the ground with many strings and small Fibres fastened to them All the whole Plant is bitter in taste and therefore supposed not to be without good effects The Places and Time The first is frequent in many parts of this Realm and particularly in St. Georges Fields near London in great abundance The Seed whereof the second and likewise the last came were brought out of Spain by Guillaume Boel It is thought that the last is the same that Camerarius saith he picked out of Epithyâ—â—â— and that Ranwolsius gave him brought out of Syria because the Seed and Leaves are so very much alike They flower and seed in June July and August when other sorts of Thistles do The Temperature Our Ladies Thistle is hot and dry in the second Degree and bindeth moderately especially the Roots The Signature and Vertues There are upon this Plant also many prickles and therefore it is good for the Stitches of the side and other Diseases thereof by Signature if the Decoction or Powder thereof be taken It is also very effectuall for Agues and to prevent and cure the infection of the Plague as also to open obstructions of the Liver and Spleen and thereby is good against the Jaundies It provoketh Urine breaketh and expelleth the Stone and is
in Wine it draweth from the tunicles of the Stomach and Intestines first Choler then Phlegme and also doth strengthen the Stomack like Alees It purgeth Choler likewise from the Reines and Liver and that by Vrine It doth much prevaile in the Green-sicknesse Jaundise and Dropsy and helpeth such as have obstructed Stomacks and Livers the Cholick and gripings in the belly It cleanseth the Womb and uterine parts helpeth Crudities driveth away the Hicket stayeth Vomiting brings a good Appetite expelleth Wind and prevailes in intermittent Agues and Obstructions of the Entralls It preserveth the blood from Putrefaction and is usefull in the pestilence s also for preventing and resisting drunkennesse Vomiting at Sea and killing Wormes The Vinegar wherein Worm-wood is boyled helpeth a stinking Breath that cometh from the teeth or gums or from corruption in the Stomack and provokes the termes in Women and if it be but sleeped in the same and drunken it helpeth such as have made themselves sick with eating Mushromes or Toodstooles The Wine made hereof is good for all the forementioned purposes except in such as have Feavers Being outwardly applyed it killeth Wormes in the Belly or Stomack the juyce with honey helpeth dim eyes and mingled with Niter it helpeth the Quinsie being anointed therewith It taketh away black and blew spots in the skin that come after falls or bruises if it be mingled with honey and anointed It helpeth sore and running Eares and easeth the paine of them if the hot vapors of the decoction be taken-in thereat by a Funnell or otherwise It is likewise effectuall to ease the Tooth-ach Being bruised and applyed with rose-Rose-water to the Stomack it gives much ease and comfort to such as have been long sick It availes against the hardnesse of the Spleene or where there is a hot sharpe-sharpe-water running betweene the flesh and the skin if it be used with Figges Vinegar and meale of darnell A decoction thereof being made and the Temples bathed therewith helpeth the Paines of the Head that come of a cold cause Also being boiled in Vinegar and the mouth washed therewith it helpeth a Stinking breath Being put into Chests or Presses where cloathes are it preserveth them from Wormes and Moathes If the skin be rubbed with the juice or with the Oyle it driveth away Fleas and Gnats It is said that if Children before they be three Moneths old be bathed with a decoction thereof or their Temples feet and hands be nointed with the juyce thereof and well rubbed in they shall not be troubled nor molested with heat or cold all their life-time It is also commended being so used as before for preserving the body that it shall not be infected with Scah Leprosy French disease Lice or such like malady except some heinous crime be to be punished with one of these Notwithstanding the good qualities aforesaid the juyce offends the head by raising up Vapours which cause drowsynesse and sleepinesse Neither is it safe to use it in the Consumption of the Lungs falling sicknesse Arthritick paines Apoplexy Lethargy and continuall Feavers Where the Stomack is hot the use is also to be forborne especially being inflamed CHAP. CXLIX Of Myrabolanes The Names The Arabians were the first that made Mirabolanes known to the World and called them in general by the name of Delegi as by the Writings of Mesue Serapio do appeare which some of the moderne Greekes translating gave them the names of Myrabolanes because as it is likely they thought the fruit was like unto an Acorne but why they should give the other word Myrâ—s which signifieth an Oyntment cannot be understood by any seeing that they are never used in any Oyntment Yet they recaine the name Myrobalanes which signifieth as much as Balamus Myrepsica or Glans inguentaria the Acorne for Oyntments They are called in English by Mr. Parkinson Purging Plums The Kinds The Author just now mentioned doth set down five sorts of these fruits with the severall Trees whereon they grow As. 1. The yellow Mirabolane Indian Plum 2. The purple Mirabolane 3. The round Mirabolane 4. The bearded or six square Mirabolane 5. The black Mirabolane Their Latine Names are 1 Citrina 2. Chebula 3. Bellerica 4. Emblica 5. Indica The Form The Tree that beareth the yellow Myrabolanes is said to grow as great as a Plum-Tree having many branches and winged Leaves on them like unto the true Service Tree the Fruit is for the most part as big as a reasonable Plum some what long and fully round but having many faire ridges on the outside especially when it is dryed shewing it to be five square and not perfectly round though coming somthing neere round of a yellower colour on the outside then any of the rest the flesh or substance being of a reasonable thicknesse yet not so thick as the Chebula or Emblica nor so thin as the Bellerica The stone is white thick and very hard to break with eminencies and ridges also therein and a very small long kernel lying in the middle of an astringent taste as the dryed fruit is also but much more then it The Places and Time All these fruits grow in the East Indies Wild and not manured yea in divers Provinces as some in Goa and Batecula others in Malaver and Dabul Yet Garzias saith that foure sorts grow in the Kingdome of Cambaya and the Chebula in Bisnagar Decan Guzarate which we call at this time Surrate and Bengala Bellonius saith in his book of Observations that the yellow Mirabolanes grow in Arabia and Syria and also in the plaines of Jericho but it is thought he was mistaken The Temperature All the kinds of Myrabolanes are cold in the first degree and dry in the second not only purging but strengthening the stomack The Vertues The Citrine or yellow Myrabolanes do purge Choler strengthen the Stomack Heart and Liver profit such as have the Hemorrhoides or Piles are proper for such as are of a temperate heate They are good in Tertian Feavers or Agues cause a good colour and hinder old age being often taken The Chebulae do purge Phlegme quicken the Braine and sharpen the Sight strengthen the Stomack after purging They are profitable for such as have the Dropsy and are troubled with long continued Agues The Emblick and Bellerick purge the Stomack from rotten Phlegme lying therein and strengtheneth the Braine and Joynts Heart and Liver and bind all other loose or fluent humors in the parts of the body and are very effectuall for the Trembling of the Heart and to stir up Appetite stay Vomiting and restraineth the fury and belching of Choler qualifyeth the great heat of the inward parts and allayeth Thirst giveth ease to those that are troubled with the Piles by restraining the fiercenesse of Choler flowing into them and for this last effect the Citrine are most used as having the signature thereof The Indies or black Myrabolanes do purge Melancholy and black or adust Choler and therefore are available
for the Quartane Ague the Lepry and all Paralyticall diseases and they cause a good colour of the face As for their outward use the Citrine are used in Collyries or Medicine for the Eyes with the juyce of Fennell or Rose-water and against the inflammations and flowing of humors to the Eyes The powder thereof with Mastick or Rose-water is used in Vlcers to heale them and dry them The powder of the Kernells is used against dimnesse of the Eyes or to take away the Web therein or the powder thereof infused in Rose-water and dryed and then infused two or three times more and dry them then make it in powder and use it The Bellerick stay the flowing of the Hemorrhoides and helpe the falling of the haire the affected place being bathed with the decoction thereof and the powder strawed on afterwards and it makes the haire become blacker The Chebules and the Emblicks are often brought over unto us preserved whereof the Chebules are more used Physically for such purposes as are before set down then the Emblicks are which being not so harsh in taste as the Chebules are more used as a very pleasant and delicate preserved Plum amongst other junkets then for any Physicall respect CHAP. CL. Of Groundsell The Names IT is called in Greeke 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Ergerum quia verè senescit the Latines call it Senecio quia citó senescit because it becomes ihoary so soone Tragus takes it to be the Aphaca of Theophrastus especially the Cottonâ— kind called Petrella by Monardus Ferrariensis but it appeares that Traâ—â— was mistaken in that Senecio as well as Aphaca are treated of severally by Theophanstus for two distinct herbes It is called in English Groundsell and Grunsell The Kinds The Ancients have made mention but of one sort of Groundsell but this latter Age hath found out Six 1. Common Groundsell 2. Mountaine Groundsell 3. Myconus Spanish Groundsell 4. Cottony Groundsell 5. Stinking Groundsell 6. Sweet swelling Grunsell The Form Common Groundsell hath a round greene and somwhat brownish Stalk spread toward the top into some branches set with long and somwhat narrow greene Leâ—ves cut in on the edges somwhat like unto Rocket or rather an Oaken Leafe but lesser and round at the ends At the tops of the stalkes and branches stand many smal green knaps or heads out of which grow smal yellow threds or thrums which are the flowers which continue many dayes blown in that manner before it passe away in to down and with the seed is carryed away in the wind the Root is small and threddy and soone perisheth but from the seed that is shed it soone riseth up againe so that it may be seene many moneths in the yeare both green and in flower and seed for it will spring and seed twice in a yeare at the least if it be suffered in a Garden The Places and Time The first is found every where almost as well on the tops of Walles as at the foot if there be any rubbish and in untilled grounds also but especially in Gardens the second is found upon Hills and Mountaines the third was found by Myconus in Spaine and sent to Lyons the fourth groweth by Wood sides the borders of feilds and upon old Walles in many places the fiift groweth in lopped Woods of Hungaria and Austria as Clusius saith and in barren and untilled places the last was sent to Camerarius out of Italy The first flowreth almost every Moneth as I said before the second and fourth do both come somewhat neere unto the other but are not so quick in their decaying the fifth and sixth do flower only in Summer The Temperature Groundsell hath mixt faculties it cooleth and moisteneth and withall digesteth as Paulus Aegineta writeth The Vertues The decoction of Groundsell as Diosecrides saith being made in Wine and dâ—unelpeth the paines in the Stomack proceeding of Choler by causing the disaffected party to Vomit which the juice hereof taken in drink or the decoction of the herbe in ale with some currants gently performeth It is said to be good likewise against the Jaundise and Falling sicknesse being taken in Wine as also against the difficulty of making Water it provoketh Vrine and expelleth Gravell from the Reins a dram thereof given in Oxymel after some walking or stirring the body It helpeth the Sciatica also and the griping paines of the belly called the Chollick Some â—â—re it with Vinegar as a â—allet accounting it good for the sadnesse of the Heart and to helpe the defects of the Liver It is given also by Nurses to their young Children when they are troubled with the Frets as they call it which is a distemper coming cheifely from the Nurses milke being either too Windy or too Sharp if a few Currans and Anniseeds be stewed therewith It is said also to provoke Womens Courses some say also that it stayeth the Whites which Matthiolus saith cannot be in that the one quality is contrary to the other The fresh herb boiled and made into a Pultis and applyed to the Breasts of Women that are swollen with heat and paine as also to the privy parts of Man or Woman the Seat or Fundament or the Arteries Joynts and Sinewes when they are inflamed or swollen doth much ease them and â—sed with some salt helpeth to disolve the Knots or Kernels that happen in any part of the body The juyce of the Herbe or as Dioscorides saith the Leaves and Flowers with some fine Frankincense in powder used in Wounds whether of the body or of the Nerves and Sinewes doth singularly helpe to heale them and so doth the down of the Heads used with Vinegar as the same Author saith but if it be taken in drinke it will choake any one The distilled Water of the Herbe performeth well all the aforesaid properties but especially for the inflammations of the Eyes and watering of them by reason of the defluxion of the Rheâ—â—e into them It is much used to be given to tame Rabbets when they are pot-bellyed through costivenesse to make them gaunt and healthfull CHAP. CI. Of Radish The Names IT is called Greeke 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Rhaphanos and Rhaphanis 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 quòd facilè apparet from its speedy growing for it sheweth it selfe speedily some say within three dayes after it is sown It is called in Rhaphanus Radicula and Radix which last name is given unto it quia quam pancissimis magnitudine cedit because it is one of the biggest rootes that is which though it may seeme somwhat strange here in England yet in some places beyond the Seas they grow to be of a wonderfull hignesse as Fuchsius reporteth Some have called the seed hereof Bacanon and Bacanum and others Cacanon The Kinds There be sundry sorts of Radish whereof some be long and white others long and reddish some round and white others round or of the forme of a peare and of a blackish colour some wild
reasonable draught taken every morning for some time together it is very effectuall against the Jaundise by Signature the Dropsie and evill disposition of the Body especially if some purging Medicine have been taken before to avoid the grosser excrements and then it not only purgeth but also strengtheneth the Liver and Spleen cleansing them from such evill humours and hardness as they are afflicted with Iâ—â—s to be understood that these things are performed when it is dry for if it be â—ken inwardly before it be dryed the superfluous moysture will cause extraorâ—â—nary vomiting pains in the stomack and gripings in the Belly yet if the decoction thereof be made and suffered to stand and settle for two or three dayes untill the yellow colour be changed black it will not work so strongly as before but will strong then the stomack and procure an appetite to meat Being boyled in Vinegar it is an approved remedy to kill Lice to cure the Itch and take away Scabs by drying them up in a short time The same is singular good to wash the Teeth to take away the pains to fasten those that are loose to cleanse them and keep them sound Though the inner Bark be so purgative as you heard before yet the outermost doth bind the Body and is helpful for all Lasks and Fluxes thereof but this also must be dryed first or else it will not work so effectually The Leaves are reported to be good Fodder for Cattle especially for those that give milk which they breed exceedingly CHAP. CLIII Of the Oily Nut-Ben The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Balanus Myrepsica that is Glans Vnguentaria which name is also attributed to Myrobolanes only this hath Troglodytes added to it to distinguish it from them yet Theophrastus calleth it only 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 which signifies an Acorne but why no body knowes neither the fruit it â—eâ—e nor shell nor husk being like to any of the kinds of Acornes It is called by Lobel Glans unguentaria Cathartica Siliquata but we in theâ—e dayes call it more usually in Latine Nux Ben and the Oyle thereof Oleâ—â—â—â— Ben or as the Ancients called it Oleum Balaenâ—num and in English The Oâ—ly Nut Ben of which there is but one kind mentioned by any Author therefore in the next place I shall present you with The Forme The Tree whereon this Nut groweth for the first two or three yeares springeth up and perisheth in Winter againe to the root and â—riseth againe afresh every Spring but after it becometh three or â—our yeare old it groweth more Woddy It riseth up yearely after the first with one sleeme shooting forth branches of â—inged Leaves or rather winged branches of Leaves the Barke being whitish as the Leaves are also but they are composed after such an order as no other tree is for the branches rise up with the stemme or body divided into sundry other smaller twigges no bigger then rushes set with two Leaves at severall spaces distant farre a sunder ending in small points like haires but have no eyes or buds at me feet of the Leaves as the small branches of other trees have The Leaves first fall away leaving the branches bare which then shew like unto ordinary or Spanish Broome when it hath lost the Leaves and after them the Stalkes likewise perish unto the very stemme The root is thick long White and Tuberous as â—â— were yet ending in some sprayes being not much woody but rather fleshy and tender It hath not been known to beare flowers or fruit in our Christian Countryes but the Nuts or fruits such as have been brought over to us enclosed in their huskes as also out of their huskes grow some single and some two together in an huske the lower and upper end whereof is small and sharp pointed being about an hand breadth long in all round and of a darke Ashcolour on the outside and somwhat reddish on the inside of the substance of leather lither or easy to bow tugged on the out side with many long streakes in it but smooth on the inside The Nuts themselves are three square for the most part covered with a whitish soft and somwhat tough Wooddy shell whereâ—n the white kernell lyeth which is not altogether insipid but somewhat sharpe in tast and oily with all causing a kind of loathing upon the tasting almost ready to provoke vomiting out of which is pressed an Oile like as is out of Almonds and not from the Shells or huskes as some formerly supposed The Places and Time This Tree groweth in Syria Arabia Aethiopia and India where it bringeth its fruit to perfection which it hath not been known to do in Europe no not so much as to blossome as I said before The Temperature The whole Nut is of a very purging quality The dry pressing after the Oyle â—i taken out is of a cleansing as well as of a cutting quality and by reason that the moisture is taken from it of a drying effect also The Shells or Huskes are of an exceeding binding property fit to be used when occasion serveth for such purposes The Vertues The Kernells of the Nuts aforesaid being bruised and drunk with Water and Vinegar mingled together doth purge the body from grosse and thin Phlegme also and thereby is helpfull to those that are troubled with the Wind-Cholick if a few Anniseeds and Fennel seeds be put unto it the oyle that is drawn out of the Nuts doth the same also and provoketh Vomiting and cleansing the Stomack of much foul matter gathered therein yet the Nut it selfe doth much trouble the Stomack in the meane time but if it be toasted at the fire it loseth much of that evill quality oftentimes causing them to purge downwards only It is to very good effect also given in Glisters for the same purposes The Oyle dropped into the Eares helpeth the noise of them and the deafenesse also a dram of the Kernell taken in Posset-drink doth soften and dissolve the hardnesse of the Spleene and Liver the remainder of the kernell after the Oyle is pressed from it helpeth the Itch the Lepry and running sores and taketh away the ruggednesse of the Skin Morphew dry Scabs scarres freckles wheales or pimples from the face or body especially if it be used with Vinegar and Niter with which it well agreeeth and performeth the Cures much better it is also used with the meale of Orabus or bitter Vetch or the meale of Darnel in manner of a plaister to be laid to the side to consume the spleene it helpeth the Gout also being used in the fame manner Used with barly meale it comforteth the Sinâ—wes that are pained with cold and all Spasâ—â—es or Cramps and used with Honey it dissolveth all knots and hard-swellings The Oyle that is pressed out of the Nuts is also much used of Perfumers for although it have no sweet scent of it selfe to commend it yet it is of so excellent a quality that being
Leaves new sprung out of the ground The Kinds Gâ—rard reckoneth up fifteen Sorts of Daffodills as 1. Purple circlâ—d Daffodill 2. Timely Purple-ringed Daffodill 3. More timely Purple-ringed Daffiodil 4. The very hasty flowring Daffodill 5. The late flowring small Daffodill 6. Primrose Pearls or the common white Daffidill 7. French Daffodill 8. Italian Daffodill 9. The double white Daffodil of Constantinople 10. Milk-white Daffodill 11. Rush Daffodill 12. Late flowring Bush-Daffodill 13. The Persian Daffodill 14. The great Winter Daffodill 15. Small Winter-Daffodill The sixth sort of Daffodil is that which is most common in Country Gardens the description whereof followeth The Form The common Daffodill hath long fat and thick leaves full of a slimy juyce among which riseth up a bare thick stalk hollow within and full of juyce The Flower groweth at the top of a yellowish white colour with a yellow Crown or Circle in the middle The Root is white and of a Bulbus or Onyon fashion yet not without divers effects by which it is propagated The Places and Times The Daffodills with Purple Coronets do grow wild in sundry places of France but chiefly in the Meadows of Burgundy and Switzerland The Rush-Daffodill groweth wild in Spain among Grasse and other Herbs in some watery places But it mattereth not much to seek out their places of growing wild seeing they are most of them to be found in our English Gardens about London and elsewhere The common white Daffodill groweth wild in fields and sides of Woods in the West parts of England They flower for the most part in the spring that is from the beginning of February unto the end of April The Persian and Winter-Daffodills do flower in September and October The Temperature The Roots of Narcissus are said to be hot and dry in the second Degree The Vertues Besides the Ornamentall use of Daffodils for decking Garlands and Houses in the Spring-time it hath many Physicall properties amongst which there is none more eminent then that the Roots thereof do move Vomit whether they be eaten or drunken and being stamped and strained and given in drink they help the Cough and Cholick and those that be entred into a Ptisick If two drams of the Root newly gathered be boyled in Wine or Water with a littâ—â— Anniseed or Fennel-seed and a little Ginger and drunk it driveth forth by stoâ— tough and clammy Flegme and to help all Diseases that come thereof The same taken with Honey and the Seed of Nettles purgeth the Disease which causeth those spots in the Body called Ephelis and Alphus And their qualities in drying are so wonderful that they glew together very great wounds as also rifts gashes or cuts that happen about the veins sinews and tendons They have also a certain wiping cleansing and attracting faculty Being stamped with Honey and applyed Plaister-wise they help them that are burnt with fire and are effectuall for the great wrenches of the Ancles the Aches and pains of the joynts The same stamped with Barrows-grease and Leaven of Rye-bread hasteneth to suppuration hard Impostumes which are not otherwise easily brought to ripeness Being stamped with the Meal of Cocle and Honey it draweth forth Thorns and stubs out of any part of the Body and being mingled with Vinegar and Nettle-seed it taketh away Lentills and spots in the face There are besides the sorts aforementioned the double yellow Daffodill and the common yellow Daffodilly which purge by stool tough and flegmatick humours and also waterish and is good for them that are full of crudities especially if there be added thereto a little Anniseed and Ginger which will correct the churlish hardness of the working The distilled water of Daffodils doth cure the Palsie if the Patient be bathed and rubbed with the said liquor by the fire as hath been proved by that diligent searcher of nature Mr. Nicholas Belson CHAP. CLVI Of White Hellebore The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and sometimes 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 without the aspiration quòd cibum corporis cripiat because it deprives the Body of nourishment in Latine also Elleborus albus Elleborum and also Helleborus and Helleborum and Veratrum album Veratrum quòd mentem vertat or rather à verando because it cureth them that are counted mad which were formerly called Veratores and Veraculi and album to distinguish it from the black this being white in respect of that In English 't is called Hellebore and Neese-wort because it provoketh Neesing The Kinds And of this Hellebore there are eight varieties that present themselves 1. Ordinary white Hellebore or Neesing Root 2. The early white Hellebore with dark red Flowers 3. The great wild Hellebore or our Ladies Slipper 4. The small white Hellebore with a white Flower 5. The small white Hellebore with blush Flowers 6. Wild white Hellebore with whitish green Flowers 7. Wild white Hellebore with dark red Flowers 8. Variable wild white Hellebore The Forme The ordinary white Hellebore riseth at the first out of the ground with a great round whitish green head which growing up openeth it self into many goodly fair large greâ—â— Leaves plaited as it were with eminent Ribs all along the Leaves compassing 〈◊〉 another at the bottom from the middle whereof riseth up a strong round stalk with divers such Leaves but smaller to the middle thereof from whence to the top it is divided into many branches having many small yellowish or whitish green Star-like Flowers all along upon them which after turn into small long three-square whitish Seed standing naked without any husk to contain them the Root is reasonable thick and great at the head having a great many white strings running down deep into the ground whereby it is strongly fastened The Places and Times The two first sorts grow in sundry places of Germany and Austria as Clusius saith as also in some Islands of Russia where as Tradescant the elder saith the ordinary sort groweth exceeding plentifully And if I mistake not of this sort was that Hellebore that grew in Anticyra so abundantly that if any one seemed to be troubled with melancholy it was presently proverbially said unto him Naviga Anticyram intimating that there was Hellebore enough to cure him the other sorts grow many of them in our own Land as well as beyond Sea namely the third fourth and sixth especially the third in a Wood called Helks in Lancashire near the Borders of York-shire The first flowreth before the second though it spring earlier out of the ground being not in Flower untill the end of July the rest flower about May some earlier and some later The Temperature The Root of white Hellebore is hot and dry in the third degree The Vertues The Root aforesaid taken without preparation of the Body worketh very strongly and churlishly provoking extream vomiting yet that being dieted by the advice of some learned Physician without whom the medling with it will prove dangerous it is good for
Galanga 2. The lesser Galanga The Form The Greater groweth to be two cubits high having Leaves folding about the Stalke being somwhat long and narrow at the lower end and pointed at the end somwhat like a Speares head of a sad greene colour on the upper side and paler underneath The flower is white but without any scent the seed is small and neglected the root is somwhat great at the head like a reed and hath beene thought by some to be a kind of Iris being of a blackish colour on the outside and whitish within The lesser ariseth not above a foot high having Leaves like the Mirtle the root is small and bunched firme and somwhat tough red both within and without and smelleth a little sweet or aromaticall The Places and Times The first groweth in Java and Malaber being Countryes of the East-Indies The other in China concerning the time I find not any Author that maketh mention The Temperature Galanga is hot and dry in the second or third degree The Vertues and Signature This Galanga is also set down by the aforementioned Crollins to have the Signature of the Stomack and from thence it hath beene found to be exceeding profitable in all cold diseases of the Stomack by helping its concoction and expelling Wind and Crudities from it and strengthening it if it be boiled in Wine and taken Morning and Evening It doth also very much comfort and strengthen a moyst bram helps the Vertigo or swimming of the Head and avails against the palpitation or beating of the Heart and is very useful in the gnawing of the stomack and easeth the Cholick which proceedeth of Wind and in the Diseases of the Mother and stopping of the Urine and hath a speedy operation to cleanse the passages thereof from slimy flegm and stones gathered therein or in the passages at the neck of the Yard and also to wast and consume any fleshy excrescence in the neck of the Bladder or Yard Besides it not only provoketh to Venery but helpeth Conception so that there cannot be a better thing for those which desire to supply their want of Children for it is profitable for them that have cold Reins and excellent for them that have cold and windy distempers of the Womb. Being boyled in Wine and so taken it helpeth a stinking breath and dissolveth the hardness of the Spleen There be also to be had at the Apothecaries Shops both a Powder and Electuary whose chief Ingredient is Galingall both which prevail against Wind sower belchings and indigestion grosse humors and cold Diseases of the Stomach and Liver You may take half a dram of the powder at a time or two of the Electuary in the morning fasting or an houre before meat If Galingall be drunk with the water or Juyce of Plantane it stoppeth the Bloody-Flux and strengtheneth nature comforteth the Brain and helpeth the trembling of the Heart Both the sorts above-mentioned may be used to good purpose in Meats as well as Medicines but the lesser is both of more use and of greater effect and indeed is to be used only in all the Compositions wherein Galanga is appointed yet when the one is not to be had the other may be and is used The best is full of small holes CHAP. CLXIII Of Cardamomes The Names THey are called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 in Latine Cardamomum in imitation of the Greeks who gave it that denomination from the likeness of it to Amomum and the vertues thereof it being very profitable for that Disease of the Stomack which is called 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 for the affinity that the veins belonging to the mouth of the stomack have with the heart and because being slit in two it represents the form of the Heart In Shops Grana Paradisi In English Cardamomes after the Greeks but commonly Grains or Grains of Paradise The Kinds Whosoever shall observe the Cuts in Gerard may collect from thence that there are five sorts of Cardamomes 1. The greater Cardamomes of the Arabians 2. The greater Cardamomes of the Shops 3. The middle sort of Cardamomes 4. The lesser Cardamomes 5. The least Cardamomes The Form Cardamomes grow by the report of the learned upon an Herby Plant of the height of one Cubit not unlike in substance to the Herb that beareth Ginger whereupon doth grow a great Cod or Husk in shape like a Fig when it groweth upon the Tree but of a russet colour thrust full of small Seeds or Grains of a dark reddish colour as may be plainly seen when it is divided and of a very hot tast The Places and Time They grow in all the East-Indies from the Port of Calecute unto Cananor it groweth in Malavar in Joa and divers other places They spring up in May being sowen of Seed and bring their fruit to ripeness in September The Temperature Cardamomes are hot and dry in the third Degree having in them an astringent faculty The Vertues The Seeds called Cardamomes or Grains of Paradise are generally received to be of admirable efficacy for that distemper of the stomack called the Cardiack passion in which it is very prevalent and indeed the Cods wherein the Seed is contained have some similitude with the stomack It is also very useful when the stomack is not able to perform the Office of digestion or when the appetite hath any need of provocation and likewise for the suppressing of vomiting when either of them proceed of a cold cause if so be it be only chewed in the mouth and so it draweth forth watery and flegmatick humours both from the Head and Stomack It is in like manner profitable against the Falling-sickness the Sciatica the Cough resolutions of the Sinews Ruptures pains of the Belly killing of Worms and provoking Urine being drunk with Sack and so it not only comforteth and warmeth the weak cold and feeble stomack but helpeth the Ague and riddeth the shaking fits A dram of Cardamome-Seed drunk in Wine with as much Bark of Laurel breaketh the Stone and being mixed with Ale wherein Time and Parsley have been boyled and then strained it is a good remedy for the Chollick It is a good Spice for Women that are troubled with any grief particularly belonging to that Sex It provoketh Urine when it is stopped or passeth with pain resisteth poyson and the sting of Scorpions and other venomous Creatures It expelleth Wind powerfully from other entralls as well as the stomack easeth those that by falls or beatings are bruised and broken and those that are tormented with the Sciatica or Hip-Gout and being boyled in Vinegar or sleeped therein and used it is good against Scabs and Tetters The Powder of it put into the nose comforteth the feeble brain or if it be put with the Oyl of Musk in an Egge-shell till it boyl and then anointed therewith It is said by some to be the chief of all Seeds CHAP. CLXIV Of Pepper The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉
that proceed from such causes if either the Conserve of the depurate juyce or the Syrup thereof be taken with the Syrup of Violetts The said juyce also or the berries themselves either conserved or preserved is often used for those that loath their meat to procure an Appetite and represse the force of Choler rising from the Liver thereinto and that which passeth into the bowels procuring sharp laskes as the bloody flux c. It helpeth likewise to stay Womens Immoderate courses and if it be taken with a little sowthernwood-Sowthernwood-water and Sugar it killeth the Wormes in the body It is good also for those that Spit blood to fasten loose teeth strengthen the gums and coole the inflammations of the palate and throat if the Conserve be dissolved in water mingled with a little Vinegar and a gargle made there of and stayeth Rheums and distillations upon those parts It helpeth likewise to dry up moist Vlcers and to soder up greene The said depurate juice called Wine of Barberies serveth to dissolve many thing Chimically The inner yellow bark of the branches or root hath the Signature of the yellow Jaundise and therefore is with good successe given unto them that have it being boyled and drunke The same laid in steep in white Wine for the space of three houres purgeth wonderfully as 't is said CHAP. CLXVI Of the Curran-Tree The Names IT is more then probable that this Plant was not known to the ancient Greek writers seeing there is no Greek name for it that we can learne It is called Ribes and Ribesius frutex from some Analogy it hath both in respect of the berries and also in the properties with the Ribes of Serapio and not that it is the same Gesner calleth it Ceanothus levis but it is accounted by divers to be a kind of Grossularia who therefore call it Grossularia Rubra Grossularia ultramarina Bauhinus calleth the white sort Grossularia hortensis margaritis similis The black sort is generally called Ribes fructu nigro in English Black Currans as other are Red and White but the White are called Gozell in some parts of Kent The Kinds Of these kind of Currans which are none of those which are sold at the Grocers there be foure sorts of Trees 1. The ordinary red Curran-Tree 2. The great red Curran-Tree 3. The white Curran-Tree 4. The black Curran-Tree The Forme The stemme or stock of the Curran-Tree hath a very thin outer bark which in the red black Curran-Tree is brownish but in the white it is whitish all of them being green underneath and are about the bignesse of a good great staffe wholly without thornes on any branch whereon grow large cornered blackish greene Leaves cut in on the edges into five parts somewhat like a Vine-leafe but a great deale lesse The Flowers come forth at the joynts of the Leaves many together on a long stalke hanging down about a fingers length of an herby colour after which follow round berries all greene at the first but afterwards as they grow ripe they tend to their severall colours and are then cleare and transparent the red are of a little pleasant and tart tast withall the White more Winy and acceptable but both the Leaves and Fruit of the black have a kind of strong evill sent but yet are wholesome although not so pleasant as any of the former and are eaten by many the root is wooddy and spreadeth diversly The Places and Time All these sorts have been found growing naturally wild some in Savoy and Switzerland as Gesner saith and some in Austria as Clusius whence they have been trasplanted into our English Gardens where they beare well They flower in the beginning of April and their fruit is ripe in June and July continuing on the bushes long after they are ripe before they fall or are withered The Temperature All these sorts of Currans are cold and moist and that in the first or second degree and somwhat astringent The Vertues The red and white Currans when they be ripe are very profitable to allay the heat and fainting of the Stomack and to quench thirst and to provoke an appetite and therefore are safely permitted in hot and sharpe Agues for the juice of them tempereth the heat of the Liver and blood and the sharpnesse of Choler and resisteth putrefaction It taketh away likewise the loathing of meat and the weaknesse of the Stomack by much Vomiting for it closeth the mouth thereof and represseth the distemper whereof it is caused It is said also to stop the laske that proceedeth of Choller and the bloody flâ—xe and that it is usefull for the Cough especially the dryed juyce or Rob thereof which is made after this manner Take of the juice of Currans clarified twelve pound boile it halfe away and adde to the remainder old White-Wine five pound consume the third part over a gentle fire taking away the scum as you ought let the rest settle and streine it and with three pound of Sugar boile according to Art till it be somthing thicker then new Honey And being thus made you may take a little on the point of a knife as often as you have occasion to use it for any of the purposes aforesaid The black Currans be used in sauces and so are the Leaves also by many who like the tast and sent of them though others do not I might proceed further in declaring at large how that the fruit of the Raspeberry bush the Service-Tree the Cornell-Tree the Filberd Hazel and Chest-nut-Tree is used for food rather then Physick but because few of them or any other that I have omitted have any eminent Quality profitable to the Stomack I shall only name them here and if occasion serve treat of them in the following part as I have done of some other in the foregoing Onely I shall not think it amisse to specify that most sorts of Graine as Wheat Rye Barly Beanes Pease Oates Rice Lentills c. are usefull for food and so are divers Rootes as Turneps Carrets Parsneps Potatoes Skirrets Onyons Leeks Garlick Radishes c to which may be added Melons Pepons Cucumbers Artichokes c as also divers herbs as Cabbage Coleflowers Beets Lettice Spinage Asparagus Chervaile Alexanders Buglosse Borage Tarragon Bawme Mint Sage Sorrell c some whereof are profitable to the Stomack whereas others by reason of their windinesse are obnoxions thereunto unlesse they be eaten with discretion after they be corrected by the fire and have some Pepper strewed upon them to expell the Wind It will be needlesse to mention them againe to tell you which of them stand most in need of correction for that every good Huswife can tell but if any one desires further to be resolved he shall find most of them handled dispersedly in this book I shall now descend to the Liver for thither is the Chyle conveyed through the Meseraick veines for sangufication and comes next to be rectifiod CHAP. CLXXVII Of Rubarb The
Names I Find no Author that setteth down the Greek name of this Simple and I suppoâ—e the reason is because it is of later invention it being not that PaÌ„â— which Dioscorides mentioneth but brought out of China and called so from the River Rha on whose bankes it is said very plentifully to grow The Common Latine name is Rhabarbarum the reason whereof whosoever desires to know may read much thereof in Parkinsons Herball and be unresolved when he hath done The Kinds Of Rubarb there be six sorts 1. The True Rubarb 2. Bastard Rubarb 3. Monkes Rubarb 4. China Rubarb 5. The broader Elecampane leafed Rubarb 6. The narrower Elecampane leafed Rubarb The Form The True Rubarb riseth out of the ground in the Spring-time with a great round brownish head which openeth it selfe into sundry Leaves one after another very much crumpled together at the first and brownish but after they have spread themselves to a very large round compasse they become smooth being supported by a brownish stalk of the thicknesse of ones Thumb when they are at the biggest and about halfe a yard in length the Leafe also from edge to edge being neere the same breadth of a sad or darke greene colour of a fine sowre tast exceeding that of the Garden or Wood-sorrell amongst which there ariseth though not every yeare a strong thick stalk about a foot higher then the Leaves that grow below and like unto them but lesser at every joynt up to the top and among the Flowers which be white spreading forth into many branches and consisting of five or six small white Leaves a peice hardly to be discerned from the white threds in the middle after which come brownish three square seeds like unto those of other Dockes whereof it is a kind The root which will grow to be very great is of a darke brownish or reddish colour on the outside with a pale yellow skin under it covering the inner substance or root which being pared away the root appeareth of so fresh and lively a colour with fresh coloured Veins running through it that no Rubarb whatsoever can excell it which being dryed carefully by the gentle heat of a fire and every piece kept from touching one another it will hold its colour well and is commended by those that have made tryall of it The Places and Time The first as it is reported grew in Thracia whence it was brought to Venice and from thence to us the seed being sent by Dr. Lister to Mr. Parkinson who husbanded it so well that it grew and in two or three yeares brought forth much seed by which he furnished many of his friends Yet I find it growing very rarely and that in no great quantity not remembring that ever I saw it before the writing hereof but only in the Physick Garden at Oxon and in the Garden of one Cudymion Campion of Wansworth in the County of Surrey The second groweth naturally upon the hills not farre from Caria in Germany as also neere Friburg in Switzerland on the Mountaines in Austria groweth also plentifully in many of our Gardens where it is sowen The thâ—rd groweth about Lausannâ— in Savoy as Tragus saith but only in Gardens with us The fourth groweth in China as the name expresseth and is that as the Apothecaries pretend that is made use of in shops because they may have the greater price â—or it although that of England is as effectuall for many purposes The fift is to be found on Mount Baldus neere Verona in Italy and on the hills in Switzerland and the last came out of Italy also These sorts flower in June and the seed is ripe in July The Rootes which are for use must not be taken up till the Stalk and Leaves be quit withered and gone which will be in October for should they be taken before or after the Leafe begins to put forth they would lose much of their colour The Temperature Rubarb is hot and dry in the second degree of a mixt substance partly airy thin and purging partly grosse and earthy whereby it is binding and drying The Monkes Rubarb which is also dry but cooling is not so frequently used as formerly since the Bastard Rubarb hath been so plentifull The Vertues Rubarb is so effectuall for the Liver that it is called the Life Soul Heart and Treacle of the Liver purging from thence Choler Phlegme and watery humours and is therefore usefull in Cholerick and long continued Feavours in the Jaundies Green sicknesse Dropsy Stoppings of the Liver as also against the hardnesse thereof and intemperate coldnesse being taken of it selfe made into Powder and drunk in a draught of White-Wine fasting after it hath been steeped therein all night or put among other purges as shall be thought convenient It is likewise good against the Windinesse Wambling and Weaknesse of the Stomack and all paine thereof the Crampe gnawing and griping of the Belly Kidneys and Bladder the Ach of the Breasts and Mother the Sciatica spitting of blood Sobbing Hicket the bloody Flux and Lasks and all Stingings and venomous bitings one dram thereof being taken in Hydromel or Honyed Water The Powder taken with Cassia dissolved and a little washed Venice Turpentine clenseth the Reines and strengtheneth them afterwards and is very effectuall to stay the running of the Reines or Gonorrhea It is also given for paines and swellings of the Head for those that are troubled with Melancholy and helpeth the Gout The Powder of Rubarb taken with a little Mummia and madder Rootes in some red-Wine dissolveth clotted blood in the body hapning by any fall or bruise and healeth burstings and broken parts as well inward as outward The Oyle likewise wherein it hath beene boyled worketh the like effects being anointed It is used to heale the Ulcers that happen in the Eyes and Eyelids being steeped in White-Wine or any other convenient Liquor and then strained as also to asswage swelling and inflammations and applyed with Honey or boyled in Wine it taketh away all black and blew spots or markes that happen therein Whey or White-Wine are the best Liquors to to steep it in and thereby it worketh more effectually in opening Obstructions and purging the Liver and Stomack many do use a little Indian Spiknard as the best Corrector thereof The Seed of Bastard Rubarbe easeth the gnawing and griping paines of the Stomack and taketh away the loathing thereof The Root of it helpeth the Ruggednesse of the Nailes and being boyled in Wine it helpeth the Kings-evil as also the Swellings of the Kernells of the Eares It helpeth them that are troubled with the stone provoketh Vrine and helpeth the dimnesse of the sight It is also used in opening and purging Diet Drinkes with other things to open the Liver and to cleanse and coole the blood The Root of Monkes Rubarbe purgeth likewise but not so forcibly as either of the former The Seed therof contrarily doth bind the belly and helpeth to stay Laskes and the
bloody flux and so doth the root of the true Rubarbe if it be toasted at the fire and drunk with Plantane water or thick red wine The distilled water thereof is very profitably used to heal Scabs as also foul ulcerous sores and to allay the inflammations of them The juyce of the Leaves or roots or the decoction of them in Vinegar is used also as a most effectuall remedy to heaâ—e Scabs and running Sores The two last sorts of Rubarb are seldom used their qualities being more astringent then opening CHAP. CLXXVIII Of Turmerick The Names IT is in uncertain whether this Drug were known to the Grecians or not there being no positive Greek name for it upon record some think it to be the Cyperus Indicus of Dioscorides because it hath the same colour taâ—â— the root being like Ginger but why he should referr it to a Cyperus is somewhat strange the root of that having no such form colour or tast Garcias and Christopherus Acosta call it Crocus Indicus but the Common Latin name is Curcuma borrowed as is most probable from the Arabians who call it Curcum yet this is not the Curcuma of Serapio or Avicen as Matthiolus hath well noted which is no other then the greater Celandine whose root is yellow and therefore the Apothecaries in former times took it for Curcuma and put it into the Composition called Diacurcuma I find but one sort thereof and therefore I shall proceed to the description The Form Turmerick beareth larger thinner Leaves then Millet and of a paler green colour which afterwards when the stalk is grown up do likewise encompasse one another thereupon up to the top What flower or seed it beareth I find no mention The Root is somewhat like Ginger in forme but of a yellow or Saffron colour within and without yet it is not so flat as Ginger but rounder hot in tast and bitterish when it is dry though being fresh the bitternesse thereof cannot be so easily perceived by reason of the moisture that is in it The Places and Time I find not that Turmerick groweth any where but in the East-Endies but that iâ— doth there the names above mentioned do cleerly intimate I can say nothing of the time having not yet met with any Author to direct me in this particular The Temperature Turmerick is hot and dry in the second or as some say in the Third degree The Signature and Vertues If all Roots Flowers and Barks that are yellow do cure the yellow-Jaunders by Signature as it hath bin found experimentally by those who have made tryall of them then certainly Turmerick cannot choose but do it it being so eminently yellow And therefore they do well that use it for the yellow Jaundise which is a distemper commonly proceeding from the Liver so that if it be good for the one it must be consequently for the other as also for the obobstructions of the Gall which is the receptable for that yellow choler which causeth the Jaundise when it cannot be admitted It is very effectuall likewise to open the Stoppings of the Stomack Womb and Bladder and is very good in the Dropsy and Green sicknesse for it openeth all manner oâ— obstructions and heâ—peth to bring down Womens courses It is of very good use also in oâ—d and inveterate griefes and sicknesses and that evill diâ—poâ—ition of the body called Cachexia which is when the whoâ—e nourishment of the body is sent to feed some predominâ—nt humours Neither is it good for men only but for Horses especially when they are troubled with the Yellowes as the expert Farrier can tell you It is used outwardly to take away the haire and is put into thoâ—e Medicines that are made for the Eyes and for the Itch and Scab if some juice of Oranges and the Oyle of the Câ—car or Indian Nâ—t be mixed with it as Gartias saith It is much used to colour dâ—shes cups and such â—ike Woodden-Vessels insteed of Saffron The Indians use it much both to colour and season their meats and broths as we do Saffron in ours it being cheaper and easier to be had amongst them CHAP. CLXXIX Of Agrimony The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 et 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Eupatorium and Hâ—patorium and so the Latines call it also the first name being given unto it from King Eupator who first â—ound out the Vertues of it the other from 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Jecur quiâ— Hepati pracipâ—e medâ—tur because it is a chiefe he per to the Liver It is also called Agr 〈…〉 nia of divers which is the name whereby it is best known in Shops Some or her names are also given unto it as Marmorella Concordia Ferraria and Lappa inâ—ersa because the seeds which are rough like burres hang down-wards It is called in English Agrimony and Egrimony The Kindes There be divers sorts of Agrimony Seaven whereof I shall present you with 1 Common Agrimony 2 Sweet smelling Agrimony 3 Bastard Agrimony 4. Hemplike Agrimony 5. The broader Hempâ—ike Agrimony of America 6. Narrow leafed Hemplike Agrimony of New-England 7. Common water Agrimony 8. Water Agrimony of New-England The Forme Common Agrimony hath divers long Leaves made of many set upon a Stalker some greater other smaller all of them dented about the edges greene above somewhat grayish underneath and hairy withall from amongst which doth arise a hard round hairy brown stalke about the height oâ— halfe a yard or more with some smaller Leaves upon it set here and there towards the top whereof grow many small yellow Flowers one above another in long spikes after which come many rough heads of seeds hanging downwards like to small burres which when they be ripe will catch hold and stick upon Garments or upon any hairy Beast that shall rub against them The Root is black long and somwhat wooddy abiding many yeares and shooting a fresh every Spring being also of an indifferent good smell The Place and Time The first groweth in divers pastures and ditches hedges and highway-sides throughout the Land the second is not so common with us being a retainer only with those that are curious but is naturall to Italy in many places the third Columna sound about Naples the fourth is found by the brinkes of ditches in other moist places n and sometimes in upland grounds the fifth and sixth came to us from New England and Virginia the seventh in shallow ponds and plashes of water and such places as have bin overflown by Winter floods the last came from New England but groweth very strongly in our gardens They all flower about July and the Sâ—â—d is Ripe towards the latter end of August The Temperature Agrimony is hot in the first degree but temperate in respect of drynesse so that though it doth moderately bind yet it 〈◊〉 and scowreth and is of subtill parts The Virtues Not onely the Greek name of this Heth but also the continued consent of ancient and
wherein it hath been boiled being Gargled in the Mouth stoppeth Rheâ—â—e CHAP. CLXXXI Of Succory The Names UNder the title of Succory three sorts of Plants are comprehended viz Cichory Endive and Dandelyon differing not so much in operation as in forme all which are called 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 in Greek by one general name yet for distinction sake common Succory is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 because as it seemes it grew wild there and that which hath broad Leaves Pliny nameth Hedypnois and the bitterer Dioscorides calleth 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 which signifies bitternesse in Latine Cichoreum Cicorea Intyâ—us and Intybum all which words are used promiscuously both for Succory and Endive but commonly they are distinguished Dandelion is called Dens Leonis in Latine from the likenesse the jagged Leaves have with a Lyons tooth as also Taraxacon The Kinds The subdivision of these three sorts put together will make tenne 1 Garden Succory 2. Broad Garden Succory 3. Yellow Succory 4. Wild Succory 5. Common Garden Endive 6. Curled Endive 7. Medow Endive 8. Wild Endive 9. Dandelion 10. Succory Dandelion The Forme Common-Garden Succory hath broad Leaves somwhat hairy not much unlike to Endive but narrower and many times deeply cut in on the edges amongst which do rise up stalkes upon which are placed the like Leaves but smaller The staâ—ke divideth it selfe towards the top into many branches whereon do grow little bâ—eâ—v Flowers consisâ—ing of many small Leaves after which followeth white seed The Root is tougâ— long and white of colour continuing many yeares from which as from every part of the Plant doth issue forth white bitter and milky juiâ—e the whole Plant is of a bitter tast likewise The Places and Time The two first are commonly sowen in Gardens yet it is said likewise that they grow by high way-sides and in untilled and barren ground but I suppose that is meant only of the wild sorts though Gerard affirme it of those of the Garden The two first of Endive which are the fifth and sixth in the Catalogue of the Kinds are also Inhabitants of the Garden and no other place that I can find If it be sown in the Spring it quickly cometh up to Flower seedeth in harvest and afterwards dyeth but if it be sown in July it remaineth till Winter and then if it be taken up by the rootes and suffered to lye two houres till it be so tough that it may be wrapped very close together and afterwards buryed in the Earth with the rootes upward it is called Whited Endive and may be taken up at convenient times and used in Sallets all Winter The sorts of Wild-Endive being the seaventh and eighth grow wild in sundry places in England upon untilled barren grounds especially in chalky and stony places flowring in August The ninth and tenth are found almost in every place and Flower almost at all times but especially in March if the cold weather hinder them not The Temperature Endive and Succory are cold and dry in the second degree but the VVild-sorts of them as also of Dandelion are somwhat dryer than those of the Gardens and cleanse and open more by reason of the bitternesse which is joyned with them and in some cases are more effectuall The Vertues The Leaves of the Garden kinds are used both for Meat and Medicine for they may be boyled and eaten with Butter and Vinegar either by themselves or with other Herbs as Lettice Spinage c. or chopped into brothes as other Pot-herbs are The Whited Endive is the most rare and that may be eaten either raw in Sallets or boyled in broth as aforesaid Both Endive and Succory any waies used as long as they be greene do coole the heate of the Liver and by a speciall property do strengthen it and open the obstructions thereof for which vertues they do deserve to be much esteemed For it is a great preservation of health to have the Liver temperate and unstopped seeing it is the place whither the nutriment is sent from the Stomack to be wrought and disposed of for the good of the whole body so that if this part do not rightly performe its offiice which is cheifely to convert the purer part into blood and to send away the rest by those conveyances which are destinated for the purpose all things will not go well It is effectuall also to helpe the stopping of the Gall yellow Jaundise lack of sleepe stopping of Urine hot burning Feavours and great heat of the Stomack A handfull of the Leaves or Roots boyled in Wine or Water and a draught thereof drunk faâ—â—ing dâ—iveth forth Chollerick and Phlegmatick humours helpeth the Dropsy and those that have an evâ—ll disposition in their bodies by reason of long sickneâ—â—e evill dyet c. whereby the nutriment of the body is converted into some predominant humour to the great prejudice of the rest A decoction either of Succory Endive or Dandelion or of all three made with Wine and drunk is very effectuall against long lingering Agues and a dram of the seed in Powder drunk in Wine before the Fit of an Ague helpeth to drive it away and is also available for the Faintings Swooning and Passions of the heart outwardly applyed they serve to allay the sharp humours which are the cause of fretting Ulcers hot Tumors and Swellings and Pestile 〈…〉 Sores and wonderfully help not only the rednesse and inflammations of the Eyes but the dimnesse of the sight also They are also used to allay the paines of the Gout The distilled Water of these Herbes are effectuall for all the purposes aforesaid and being taken Morning and Evening helpeth the straightnesse and stopping of the Breast and is good for VVomen with Child to strengthen them and their senses and likewise for Children that are troubled with Head-ach proceeding or Heat The said water or the juice or the Leaves bruised is very effectuall for Nurses Breasts that are pained with abundance of Milk allayeth Swellings Inflammations St. Anthonies fire Pushes VVheales and Pimples especially used with a little Vinegar as also to wash Pestiferous sores CHAP. CLXXXII Of Alecoast and Maudlin The Names IT will not be improper to put these two herbes together because they have some affinity both in their flowers names and properties The first is called in Latine Costus hortorum for its Greek name I never met with to distinguish it from the Indian Costus which is a Root from whence the electuary Cariocostinum hath its denomination It is also called Balsamita major or Mas Mentha Graeâ—a Saracenica Officinarum Salvia Romana Herba lassulata Herba Sanctae Mariae In English Costmary and Alecoast Maudlin is called in Greeke 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 quasi non senescens because the flowers gathered in a fit time wax not old nor decay by age in Latine Costus hortorum minor Mentha Corimbifera and Eupatorium Mesue whence it may be gathered that it is good for the Liver though it be
nor the true Eupatorium The Kinds The sorts of both put together are in all six 1. Ale Coast or Costmary 2. Common Maudlin 3. White Maudlin 4. Small Maudlin 5. Purple sweet Maudlin 6. Fennell leafed Maudlin The Forme Alecoast is a sweet herbe bearing many broad and long pale greene Leaves snipped about the edgsevery one upon a long foostalk among which rise up many long greene round stalkes with such like leaves on them but lesser up to the top where it spreadeth it selfe into three or four branches every one bearing an umbel or tâ—ft of gold yellow flowers somwhat like unto Tansy flowers but lesser which turne into small heads containing small flat long seed The root is somwhat hard and stringy and being divided may be thereby propagated The Places and Time The three first are found only in Gardens with us yet they have been found natural in divers rough untilled places of Tuscany in Italy and Narbone in France the three last grow in dry rocky and barren grounds They do all commonly flower about the moneths of June and July The Temperature Alecoast and Mandlin are both of them hot and dry in the second degree The Vertues â—oâ—th these Herbes are very effectually used by those that are troubled with evill cold and weake Livers for to them it is very freindly and therefore it is very profitable for those that are fallen into a continuall evil disposition of the whole body called Cachexia as hath been formerly said proceeding from the coldnesse of the Liver especially if a dram of the juice being first clarified and afterwards boiled to its due thicknesse which is something thicker then Honey be taken every morning It helpeth the Rickets and VVormes in Children provokes Urine and gently without purging disburdens the body of Choler and Phlegme it is good for the coldnesse of the Mother strengtheneth the Stomack and stayeth Vomiting and so doth the juice being drunk in Wine The Conserve of the Leaves made with Sugar is of very good use to warm and dry the braine and open the stopping thereof and to helpe Rheumes and distillations taken in the quantity of a beane Either of the herbes alone or with Parsnip-seeds boiled in Wine and drunk cureth the griping and torments of the belly or guts as also the flix It is profitable for the greifes of the breast and Lunges it breaketh Imposthumes and draweth evill humours from the eyes and other parts Being boiled either in Wine or Whey and drunk it is good for them which have taken any thing which is too Narcoticall as Opium Hemlock or the like and for biting of Serpents especially if one dram of the Powder of the root thereof be taken in Wine with the like weight of the seed of Wild Parsnips The decoction thereof is good for Women to sit in to provoke sweat to bring down the termes and to ease the paine that cometh by the retention of them The decoction of the flowers is good for many of the purposes aforesaid as also to open the obstructions of the Milt Kidneys and Bladder to take away the skurfe and scab wherewith the head is infested if it be washed therewith and so it killeth the Lice thereof Being put into Ale it giveth thereunto a very pleasant tast as it doth to all Sallets and Sawces wherein it is used and therefore as I conceive is was called Alecoast CHAP. CLXXXIII Of Dockes The Names IT is celled in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 quod valet exinanire vel ventrem levare because the decoction thereof looseneth the belly It is also called in Latine Lapathum and Ramex Some of the kinds hereof are called in Latine Oxylapathum Hippolapathum and Hydrolapathum from the forme bignesse and place where they grow Bloodwort which is also a kind of Dock is called Lapathum Nigrum of some and Rubrum or Rubens by others Sanguis Draconis herba also and Lapathum sangineum from the bloody colour wherewith the whole Plant is possessed The Kinds The sorts which I shall put under this little are nine though there be divers others that might be referred unto the same 1. The red Dock 2. Sharp-pointed Dock 3. The smaller pointed Dock 4. The Common Wild Dock 5. The round Leafed Dock of Africa 6. The great water Dock 7. The lesser Water-Dock 8. The strong sented Sea-Dock 9. Blood-wort The Forme The red Dock sendeth forth many tough narrowish greene Leaves very much pointed at the ends among which riseth up a suffe hard stalke two or three foot-high set with the like Leaves but smaller still up to the top something like unto sorrell but that it is neither so tender nor sower being rather of a bitterish tast and hath the stalke branched forth towards the top into sundry large sprigges bearing small reddish flowers and brown triangular seed after them The root is great long and many times forked being blackish on the outside and somewhat reddish and yellowish within abiding many yeares but somtime spoiled with extremity of Winter The Places and Time The foure first are most commonly found in moist Meadows and somtimes in upland grounds also The fifth in Africa neere Sophia The sixth and seaventh by sides of running streames in divers places of this land The eighth groweth by the Sea side not farre from Mompelier The last is found wild in some places but not so commonly as in Gardens Most of them rise up at the spring of the yeare flower in June and July and their seed is ripe in August The Temperature All Docks are generally cold some more and some lesse they do all of them dry but not after the same manner yet some think them to be dry in the third degree The Signature and Vertues The reddish and yellowish colour of the inside of the roots of divers Docks do signify that they are good for hot Livers and the Jaundise the red that is in them representing the Liver and the yellow the Janâ—dise and therefore blood-wort is most effectuall for the first and the Dock which hath the yellowest root for the second and for both these purposes they are used with other things to be put into Ale or Beere especially the rootes which have an opening quality in them fit to loosen and make the belly soluble to open obstructions and to coole and clense the blood The decoction of the seed made in Wine or Water and drunk helpeth the wambling paines of the Stomack venemous bitings and the bloody flix The root boiled in Wine and drunk is also good for the Jaundise provoketh Urine and the termes and breaketh and expelleth the Stone and Gravell The same boiled in Vinegar or bruised raw healeth all Scurfs Itch Manginesse and other festering and corroding Scabbs the place being annointed or bathed therewith and the substance of them being stamped and applyed boyled or raw difâ—usseth kernells and swellings behind the Eares helpeth the hardnesse of the Milt the Kings-Evill and stoppeth the too much flowing of
forms yet if you break any of them gently you may easily perceive a certaine Sinew in the middest of them which will declare it to be of this sort The Places and Time Chick-weeds some grow among bushes and bryers old Walls gutters of houses and shadowy places some in Woods and by water-sides and others upon Mountaines and rocky places Some of them are greene all the Winter sending forth their flowers in the beginning of Spring and their seeds quickly after others are later not flouring till June and July The Temperature Chickweed is cold and moist and of a waterish substance and therefore it cooleth without any binding or astriction as Galen saith The Vertues As those herbs hitherto appropriated to the Liver are for the most part to be used inwardly so Chick-weed may be applyed outwardly to the Region of the Liver the herb being bruised or Cloathes or Spunges dipped in the juice thereof which may be renewed when they be dry to the great reliefe of those that are greived with the heat of the Liver for it doth coole it wonderfully The Decoction also taken inwardly cooleth and tempereth the blood inflamed in Agues the heat of the Stomack and Liver breaking out into the Lips procureth Appetite being lost or become weake is used in Hectick Feavours and asswageth the heat of the back and Urine It is also effectuall for the Jaundise if it be stamped and streined into stale Ale or White-Wine and dranke first and last for five dayes together The Leaves boiled with Marsh-mallow rootes in Water till they be very soft adding thereunto some Hogs-grease Powder of Fenugreeke and Linseed do make a very good Pultis to be applyed to Swellings or Impostumes for the ripening breaking of them to take away swellings oâ— the Legges or of any part to case members that are shrunke up to comfort Wounds in Sinewy places to defend foule malignant virulent Ulcers from Inflammation during the cure to dissolve those swellings that will not willingly be digested or come to suppuration Being boiled in Vinegar and Salt it is good against the rednesse in the Face Wheales Pushes Itch Scabs St. Anthonies fire c and so is the juice either simply used or boiled with Hogs-grease only and applyed which also helpeth Cramps Convulsions and Palsyes The Juice or distilled-Water is of much good use for all Heat and Rednesse of the eyes if some of it be dropped into them as also into the Eares to ease the paine of them and is of good effect to ease the paines heat and sharpnesse of blood in the Piles and generally all paines in the body that arise of Heat The juice sâ—â—ffed up into the Nose Pâ—rgeth rotten filth from the Head and drunk with Honyed-Wine or Water it purgeth the Belly and is good for the Stone in the Kidneys and the Dropsy It hath all the Vertues of Pellitory of the Wall and of Purslane too saving only that it is not used with meat and therefore it helpeth the Tooth-ach being boyled in Vinegar and the mouth gargled therewith Little birds in Cages especially Linnets are refreshed with it when they loath their meat the lesser sort is called Passerâ—na by some So much for the Liver in particular The Diseases usually proceeding there from are the Jaundise and the Dropsy For the former it will be needlesse to enlarge particularly because there is scarcely a Simple appropriated to the Liver which will not serve for the Jaundise especially the yellow And therefore I shall proceed to those that have a more specifick Vertue for curing the Dropsy for many there be more effectuall for that purpose then any yet spoken of and most of them are remedies for the Jaundise also CHAP. CLXXXIX Of the Elder The Names IT is called by Dioscorides and other Greeks 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 because it is a lover of the Brinks and shadowy banks of Rivers and Ditches as the most learned suppose and this name is retained by Paracelsus and the moderne Chymistâ— in whose Writings there is frequent mention of Granorum Actes In Latine it is usually called Sambâ—â—us from Sambyx the first finder of it yet some think that it should rather be called Sabucus from the likenesse that the musicall Instrument called Sabuck or Sambuck hath with its hollow and pith-emptied Rods. The English call it the Elder-Tree the Scot Boor-Tree or Bore Tree perhaps because the pith being done forth it seemeth as if it were bored The Kinds Matthiolus and others speake of Eight kinds thereof 1. Ordinary Elder 2. White berried Elder 3. Jagged Elder 4. Red berried Elder 5. March Elder 6 The Golder Rose or Rose Elder 7. Wall-wort Dane-Wort or Dwarfe Elder which is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 i. e. humilis Sambucus in Latine Ebulus 8. Jagged Wall-Wort The Form The Elder-Tree which in figure is somewhat like the Ash sendeth forth its Branches very plentifully covered with a Grayish or Ashcoloured Bark as to the outward view under which there is another of a greene colour and under that next to the Wood one that is yellow and succulent within which is contained a white and Fungous Pith the Leaves are somwhat like those of the Wall-Nut-Tree but lesse consisting of five and seaven upon a Stalke a little nicked about the edges of a faire sad green colour but smelling somwhat rank and strong From the tops of the branches do Spring many broad Tufts or umbells of Flowers which by their â—all give place to small round berries first greene then ruddy lastly of a black dark purple colour full of a purplish Winy juice containing in them some small flat Seeds or graines the Root is great and thick spreading farre about of all Wild Plants it is the first that putteth forth his Leaves and the last that sheddeth them The Places and Time There is not a Town nor scarcely a feild where the first groweth not being Planted commonly for Moundes because of its speedy growth The Second was found by Tragus in the Woodes of Germany The Third groweth wild on hills in watery Woods The fourth is not found but in the Gardens of the curious The fifth is found by waters sides and in moorish grounds The sixth is nursed up only in Gardens The seaventh groweth wild in many places as in the Abby Orchard at St. Albans in the feilds between Bloxham and Milton in Oxfordshire and in divers other places most of these sorts Flower about Midsummer but Dane-wort because it riseth out of the ground eâ—ery yeare flowreth not so soone The Fruit of the former is commonly ripe in August that of the last not before September The Temperature Elder is hot and dry in the second and third degree and Danewort would be of the same quality if it were not somwhat hotter The Signature and Vertues The Pith of the Elder being pressed with ones finger doth Pit and receive the Print of them therein as the Legs and Feet of Hydropick persons doe
therefore saith Crollius that excellent Author in his book of Signatures the juice of Elder and the Distilled-Water of Jews-Ears which I have treated of in the seaventy eight Chap â— of this worke upon another occasion though they never grow but upon the Elder-Tree are profitable in the Dropsy which is a Disease for the most part Caused by Coldnesse of the Liver because the Blood-making Faculty being vitiated and corrupted many watery humours fall into the Abdomen or belly between the skin and the flesh for the removing of which Elder is of great Vertue For not only the juice and Water of Jews-Earsâ— but that of the Flowers as also the berries green or dry are often given with good successe to helpe the Dropsy by evacuating great plenty of waterish Humours the barke of the Root also boyled in Wine or the juice or distilled water thereof two Ounces being taken fasting and two houres before Supper worketh the same effect yea more readily then any of the former the juice of the root taken provoketh Vomit mightily and purgeth the Watery humours of the Dropsy but not without trouble to the Stomack The yellow middle or if you will the undermost barke is commended by its Signature for the Yellow Iaunndise by the said Crollius which must therefore be sleeped in Wine with one or two Jewes-Eares of which strained drink a good Draught morning and evening The distilled Water thereof or a Syrup made of its juice may be used to the same purpose For besides that they Open the Belly and Evacuate hurtfull humors the Medicines prepared of this Bark have great Vertue to open all Obstructions Six drops of the Spirit of Elder-salt taken in broth is commended in the Scurvy The decoction of the Root in Wine cureth the Biting of Venemous beasts as also of a mad Dogge and mollifyeth the hardnesse of the Mother if Women sit therein and openeth the Veines and bringeth down the Courses the berries boiled in Wine perform the same effects the Haire of the Head or of any other part washed therewith is made black The juice of the green Leaves applyed to the inflammation of the Eyes asswageth them and the Leaves boiled till they be tender then mixed and beaten with Barly meale asswageth inflammations â—n any other part helpeth places that are burnt with fire or scalded with Water cureth fistulous Ulcers being laid thereupon and easeth the paines of the Gout being beaten and boiled with the tallow of a Bull or Goat and â—â—id warme thereto The Powder of the seeds first prepared in Vinegar and then taken in Wine halfe a dramme at a time for certaine dayes together is a meane to abate and consume the flesh of a corpulent body and to keep it lean Should I give you all the Vertues of Elder at large I should much exceed the usuall Limits of a Chapter and therefore I shall only give you a Breviat of them and referre you to that learned peece of Dr. Martâ—n Blockwich called the Anatomy of Elder where you may satisfy your selfe perfectly of every particular There is hardly a Disease from the Head to the Foot but it cures for besides the Vertues I have allready mentioned it is profitable for the Head-ach for Ravings and Wakings Hypocondriack Mellancholy the Falling-sicknesse the Apoâ—â—exy and Palsy 〈…〉 rrius Toâ—â—h-ach Deafenesse want of smelling Blemishes of the 〈◊〉 and Head Diseases of the mouth and Throat the infirmities of the Lungs Hâ—â—sting and Hearsenesse the Pleurify and Ptisick Womens brests being sore swooning and P 〈…〉 esse in Feavours the Plague Pox Measles Diseases of the Stomack the VVormes and other Diseases of the Gutts the Hemorrhoides the Stone Diseases of the Matrix c Neither is there any part about this Tree without its use The Leaves Berries Seeds Root and Barkes I have allready spoken of Of the flowers are made conserves a Syrup and Hony Water and Spirits Vinegar and Oxy 〈…〉 a Wine Oyle c The young shoots boiled like Asparageâ— and the young Leaves and Stalkes boiled in fat broth draweth forth mightily Choler and tough Phlegme and so do the tender Leaves eaten with Oyle and Salt The VVood serveth to make Skewets for Butchers and divers other things The Pith in the middle of the Stalkes being dryed and put into the holes of hollow and fistulous Ulcers that are ready to close openeth and dilateth the Orifices whereby injections may be use and other remedies applyed for the cure of them and may be used to keep open Issues insteed of a Pease It is said that if a Horse that cannot stale be strucken gently with a Stick hereof and some of the Leaves be bound under his Belly it will make him stale quickly It is said also that if a branch hereof be put into the trench where a Mole is it will either drive him forth or kill him there The Mountaine or Red-berried 〈◊〉 hath the properties that the common Elder hath but much weaker The Marsh Elder is of the like purging quality with the common sort especially the beâ—â—ies or juice of them The Danewort is not only more powerfull then the Elder for all the forementioned purposes but hath particular Vertues that are not in the other or at least are nothing so prevalent The juice of the root of Danewort applyed to the Throat healeth the Quinsy or Kings-Evill the Fundament likewise is stayed from falling down if the juice thereof be put therein The Powder of the Seedes taken in the Decoction of Ground-Pine with a little Cinamon to the quantity of a dram at a time is an approved remedy both for the Gout Joynt-Aches and Sciatica and also for the French disease for it easeth the paines by withdrawing the humors from the places affected and by drawing forth those humors that are fluent peccant and offensive and so doth the Powder of the Root used as aforesaid Wine wherein the root hath been steeped a night seldome faileth to drive away an Ague at the second taking An Oyntment made in May with the Leaves hereof May-butter is highly esteemed by many as a soveraigne remedy for all outward paines Aches and Cramps in the Joynts Nerves or Sinewes for starcknesse and Lamenesse coming by cold or any other Casualty and generally to warme comfort and strengthen all the outward parts being ill affected as also to mollify the hardnesse and to open the obstructions of the Spleene the greived parts being annointed therewith CHAP. CLXXXX Of Soldanella The Names NOtwithstanding the dissimilitude that this Plant hath with any of the Cole-worts yet it is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 by Dioscorides and others whom the Latines following have called Brassica marina not without great oversight in both Neither are some of our English Writers to be excused who follow their Authors to the very heeles and call it Sea Cole-wort But some Latine Authors considering the unreasonablenesse of the former name have called it Soldana Soldanella à consolidando and
Leaves many set together whiâ—h are somewhat long and hollow ending or spreading into four small Leaves of whitish yellow green colour which give place to small round and somewhat long black-berries when they are ripe wherein lyeth a white kernel The Root groweth down deep into the ground and spreadeth likewise tough long white strings somewhat wooddy Both Leafe and Flower both Bark and Root are very hot and sharp in tast heating the mouth and throat of any that shall tast them It keepeth its green Leaves all the Winter as all other Bay-Trees do even in the coldest yeares The Places and Times The First groweth wild not onely by the Lake of Geneva as Gerard or rather Dâ—donâ—ns doth affirm and in other places beyond the Seas but in our own Country also in divers places and particularly between the Hedge and a foot-path that leadeth from St. Albans to Park-Street The other was sent out of Candy as the title testifies The first flowereth very earely in the year even in January or February and sometimes before if the winter be mild The berries are ripe about May or June when the other flowereth or beareth fruit is uncertain seeing it hath not put forth either in this Country The Temperature Spurge Laurell is of a very hot and biting Temperature The Vertues It is reported of this Plant that if the Leaves be gathered with ones hand tending upwards it causeth vomiting if downwards it causeth purging but how true it is I cannot affirm for I never knew it taken inwardly yet I find upon Record that the Leaves purge slymy phlegme and waterish superfluities and are therefore good for the Dropsy and that fourteen or fifteen of the Berries do the like Notwithstanding they are said to purge very violently inflaming and heating the Throat and wringing the Stomack of whosoever shall take thereof and driveth them into divers dangerous diseases howbeit this seemeth to be spoken of the inconsiderate use thereof for it is said that if it be taken advisedly it purgeth phlegme from the Stomack and oftentimes by vomit also it procureth Womens Courses easeth the paines of the Cholick and being chewed in the mouth it draweth down from the Head and Brain much corrupt matter that would offend it And if there be any that understand not what is meant by the word advisedly let them know that it is to be taken after one of these or the like waies The Leaves must be steeped twenty four hours in good strong Vinegar and then dryed and their powder drunk in wine with Anniseeds and Mastick or else boiled in Whey of Sweet milk of broth or a Capon and so taken the dose not exceeding two scruples or one dram The Oyl wherein the fresh Leaves and Berries have been boyled being strained and the belly annointed therewith loosneth it and helpeth the Collick and being annointed on the back and reines provoketh Urine and helpeth the Piles Besides the Berries may be put into a Cataplasme for the Dropsy with Barly and Bean meale Fenugreek root of Wallwort Woormwood and Origan all which are to be sodden in wine and laid over the whole body The Flowers also used in a Glister are much commended for the said disease which is to be made thus Take flowers of Laurell two drams roots of Polypody Agarick of each a dram and half Dodder three drams seeth them in wine or water till the Third part be consumed then take of the Liquor of that decoction one pound of Benedicta Laxativa half a dram of Electuarium nidum two drams and a half Honey of Roses one ounce Oyles of Rue Camomile and flowered Luce of each one ounce of Sal Gemmae a dram and a halfe Commixe them all and make a Gliâ—â—er CHAP. CXCIX Of Toad Flax. The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Osyris as Fuchsius saith in Latin Pseudolinum and Liâ—aria from the resemblance of its Leaves with the true Line or Flax and Urinalis and Urinaria from its effects in provoking Urine Some have called it Esula adulterina from the resemblance it hath with a small kind of Esula or Spurge yet they may easily be distinguished if the stalk or Leaves thereof be broken for one hath milke the other hath not according to that old verse Esula lactescit siâ—e lacte Liâ—aria â—rescit Some have taken it to be the AntirrhiAntirrhinum of Pliny and indeed it seemeth to be a kind of Snapdragon by its flowers yet others will rather have it to be Osyris both of Pliny Dâ—oscorides and Galen whereunto it doth in many things agree There is a kind hereof which is called Scoparia and Herba Studiosorum because Scholers heretofore swept their Studdies with beesomes made thereof and Belvâ—deâ—e of the Italians for the glorious shew that the flower of it makes Some call it Wild-Flax in English but that name doth more properly belong to another kind it is called also Toad-Flax because Toads will some times shelter themselves amongst the branches of it and Flax-weed in Sussex Gallwort The Kinds Though there be many sorts of Flax-weed I shall trouble you but with ten of them 1. Great Toad-flax 2. Sweet purple Toadflax 3. Variable Toad-flax 4. Toad-flax of Valentia 5. White Toad-flax 6. Purple Toad-flax 7. Bushy Toad-flax 8. Golden Toad-flax 9. Broom Toad-flax 10 Sparrowes Toad-flax The Vertues The common Toad-flax is well known to have divers stalkes full fraught with long and narrow bâ—ew Aâ—h coloured Leaves without any footstalke at them like unto those of Flax but the stalkes are not so long from the middle of which up to the top come forth the Flowers which are many of a pale yellow colour of a strong unpleasant scent with deep yellow mouths like the flowers of Snapdragon the seeds which are blackish and flat are inclosed in round heads the Root is somwhat woody and White especially the maine down right one with many fibres thereat abiding many yeares shooting forth rootes every way round about and new branches every yeare The Places and Time Some of these sorts are wild some grow only in Gardens the expressing of their particular places would be to little purpose seeing none but the ordinary sort groweth naturally in our Land for as much as I can learne They flower from June till the end of Summer some of their seed being usually ripe towards the end of August The Temperature Toad flax is hot and dry as may be perceived from its bitternesse and also from the faculty it hath in provoking Urine The Vertues The Common sort of Toad-flax whose description I have set down is that which is most used in Physick It provoketh Urine both when it is stopt as also in those that are troubled with the Dropsy to spend the abundance of those watery humors by Urine which it draweth down wonderfully helping also to wash the Reines and Uritory parts from Gravell or Stones gathered therein and this it doth if the decoction of the Herb both Leaves and
flowers in Wine be taken and drunk And so it doth somwhat move the Belly downwards openeth the obstructions of the Liver and helpeth the yellow Jaundise expelleth Poyson provoketh Womens Courses driveth forth the After-birth and Dead-Child The distilled Water of the Herb and Flowers is effectuall for all the same purposes and in especiall being drunk with a dramme of the powder of the seeds or bark of the root of Wall-wort and a little Cinamon for certaine dayes together is held to be a singular remedy for the Dropsy to spend the Water and humors the juice of the herb or distilled Water dropped into the eyes is a certaine remedy for all heate inflammations and rednesse in the Eyes The juice or distilled Water put into foule Ulcers whether they be cancrous or fistulous with tents rouled therein or the parts washed or clensed herewith by the spirting of it into them cleareth them throughly from the bottome and healeth them up safely The same juice or water doth likewise cleanse the skin of all manner of deformity as the Lepry Morphew Scurfe Wheales Pimples or any other spots or markes therein applyed of it selfe or with some powder of Lupines for which purpose Pliny saith that the Women of his time made a kind of sope of it Culpepper saith that being laid in the Water that Chickens drink it relieves them when they are drooping CHAP. CC. Of Organy or Bastard Majerom The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Origanus concerning the Etymology of which word there be divers opinions Some will have it so called from 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 signifying a Mountaine and 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Gaudium because it joyeth very much in Mountainous and craggy places others from 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 to see and 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 to cleare because it cleareth the Eyes others will have it to come from 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 to be cold from whence comes 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 which by adding unto it becomes 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 but then it must be by Antiphrans too for it is not cold but hot It is called or rather sirnamed Heracleotâ—cum from Heraclea a Citty of Pontus where is groweth plentifully Oâ—itâ—s because Asses and Tragoriganum because Goats are mightily taken with it of divers Cunila in shops Origanum Hispanicum in English Organy and Bastard Marjerom from the likenesse it hath with the true The Kindes Authors make mention of divers sorts hereof but those that are best known in these dayes are foure 1. Organy or Bastard Marjerom 2. White Organy of Greece 3. The greater White Organy 4. Wild Organy The Forme Bastard Marjerom riseth up with divers hard round reddish greene stalkes spreading forth into branches whereon are set sundry Leaves by couples at the Joynts being somewhat round and of a whitish greene colour very like unto Marjerom but larger whiter and harder or rougher in handling at the tops of the branches stand such like scalie heads as Marjerom hath but longer from whence come small whitish purple flowers and afterwards small brownish seed The whole Plant is of a sweet smell and sharpe biting tast like unto Marjerom but that it is higher hotter and sharper The Places and Time It is very likely that not only Greece but Candy and Spaine do naturally bear these soâ—ts of Bastard Marjerome but which of them is more proper to this or that place is uncertaine It is commonly about the end of August or beginning of September before they put forth their tops or heads in our Country so that their Flowers or at least their Seed â—eldome come to maturity with us The Temperature All the Sorts of Organies do cut attenuate or make thin dry and heat and that in the third degree as Galen saith who affirmeth that the First is oâ— more efficacy then the Third and the last which is sold in Shops then either of them The Vertues The Decoction of Organy in White Wine is given with very good successe to those which have the Dropsy the Vertue thereof lying not â—o much in the purging as in the drying quality of it It is given also with Figs for the same purpose as also to them that are bursten or have a rupture and to thoâ—e which are troubled with Convulsions or Cramps The dryed Herb or juice taken in Honeyed Water purgeth downwards Melancholy and Cholerâ—ck humours â—ithout danger It is used with Honey as a Lohoc or â—icking Medicine against an old Cough and the Stuffing of the Lungs The Decoction thereof is very profitable to thoâ—e that have the Itch or are Scâ—bbed and Mangy and those that have Jaundâ—se are much holpen by it if they take it whiâ—est they be in a bath made thereof also the same with a few Cloves and Sugar heâ—peth those which have the Hickets exceedingly openeth the Obstructions of the Liver Spleen and Womb and an other stoppings provoketh Urine and Womens Courses and is good for such as have foure belchings or be troubled with a squeamish Stomack The same is good also for those that are bitten with Serpents or Venemous Beasâ—s and for such as have taken Hemlock or Opium With Syrup of Vinegar it is good for thoâ—e that have taken Poyson or the root of Cholchicum Ephemeron The juice of the greene Herb healeth the swellings of the almonds of the Eares the Ulcers oâ— the Mouth it draweth forth Phlegme by the Nostrils if it be infused in the Oyle of Flowerdeluce and being used with Milk it easeth the paines of the Eares The Powder thereof mixed with a little Salt-Peter and Honey made into the manne of a thin electuary and the teeth rubbed often therewith will make theâ— white and firme It is used in Spaine for the seasoning of Anchoves for it â—iveth to them an excellent rellish being made up therewith Tyme may be used â—or the same purposes when the other cannot be gotten Both which with Penniroyal Calamint and such other dry herbes being strewed both upon and under those which are afflicted with Hydropicall humors are very profitable for them for it is marvellous to see how much these dry them up whil'st the parties are asleep These are the Simples I have judged most proper for the Liver and in particular for the Dropsy to which I might adde these which follow Sagapenum which is the Gum of Ferula when it groweth in Media as I have said already in the Chapter of Feâ—â—ell Giant the pills whereof are profitable in the said disease Turbith which is a root brought from beyond Sea and purgeth Water very violently Elaterium which is the juice of Wild-Cucumbers dryed doth the same Euphorbium Spurge Coloquintida Carthamuâ— Thymaelea Mezereon c are violent purgers so that though they be appropriated to the Dropsy yet I shall not commend them unto ordinary people but desire them to leave them to those that are very skillfull and content themselves with those I have purposely spoken to at large Besides which there be
upon Mountaines it hath somtimes the Epithite 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 joyned to it in the Greek but more usually Montanum in Latine We in English call it Poley and Poley Mountaine The Kinds And of these Poleys there many be reckoned nine sorts 1. Our ordinary Poley Mountaine 2. Small Spanish upright Poley Mountaine 3. Small French Poley Mountaine 4. Creeping purple Poley Mountaine 5. The smallest creeping white flowred Poley Mountaine 6. Spike Leafed Poley Mountaine 7. Candy Poley with hoary broad Leaves 8. Upright narrow leased Candy Poley 9. The small African dwarfe Poley The Form The ordinary Poley Mountaine is a small low Plant having divers white or hoary round hard branches scarce a foot high whereon are set divers long and small hoary Leaves overlaid as it were with a yellowish white Down somewhat dented about the edges with two alwaies set together on the stalkes as they gâ—ow up at the tops whereof grow forth whitish or hoary yellowish heads thrusting out many small pale coloured flowers and in some places more yellow standing in hoary huskes the seed is small and blackish which it seldome perfecteth in our Land and therefore we slip the branches which being set will grow very well as often as we desire to increase it the whole plant smelleth sweet somwhat strong and quick withall The Places and Time These Plants grow not naturally in England and therefore I shall referre you to the Gardens for them as the Physick Garden at Oxford and that at Westminster where you may find divers of them They do most of them flower in July and August yet some later then others The Temperature Poley is dry in the third degree and hot in the end of the second of a loathsome bitter tast The Vertues Though this Simple be not commonly to be had in the feilds nor in every Garden yet at the Apothecaries shop it may be had at no great expence It is very effectuall to free all the inward parts from obstructions especially the Spleene and Liver which it doth through the bitternesse wherewith it is qualified it being the nature of all bitter things to open Obstructions Neither doth it only open the stopping of the Spleene but helpeth all other diseases thereof or proceeding from it as the swelling thereof the Jaundise and the Dropsy being boiled in Vinegar and Water and the Decoction thereof drunk It is also of wonderfull efficacy to resist Poyson and therefore it is alwaies put into Mithridate Treacle and all other Antidotes or Counterpoysons and to help those that are stung or bitten with Venemous Creatures the Decoction of the herb being drunk whilst it is warme nay it is so Antipatheticall to all Vermine that the fumigation or smoak thereof being burnt drives them away and so doth the herb being strewed or laid in those places that are subject thereunto It moveth the belly and bringeth down the feminine courses and doth consolidate or soder up close the Lips of cuts or wounds if it be applyed to them greene and being dry it healeth grievous sores or Ulcers and this the lesser kind doth best performe which is that also which is used in Mithridate Venice Treacle and the like Notwithstanding all these good qualities it troubleth the Stomack and causeth some paines in the head somtimes CHAP. CCXII. Of Lupines The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Thermos in Latine Lupinus Plautus called Lupinus Aurum Comicum because in his time they were used instead of money in such Comedies as had any shew of payment in any Scene thereof But that they were not used for Currant money upon other occasions may be gathered from that Verse of Horace Nec tamen ignorent quid distant ara Lupinis Which sheweth that Counters and Counterfeit monies were easily to be distinguished from true and Currant Coyne In English they are usually called Lupines after the Latin Name yet some call them Fig-beanes after the Dutch name because they are flat and round as a Fig that is pressed and others Flat-beans for the same reason Some have called the yellow Lupine Spanish Violets and other foolish names have been given it as Virginia Roses and the like The Kinds There be Eleaven severall sorts of Lupines 1. The white-Garden Lupine 2. The greater blew Lupine 3. The lesser blew Lupine 4. The smallest blew Lupine 5. The blew Sea Lupine 6. The spotted white Lupine 7. The yellow Lupine 8. The Arabian Lupine 9. A middle sort of great blew Lupine 10. Blush flowered Lupine 11. Lupinus flore obsoleto The Form The white Garden Lupine riseth up with a great round stalk hollow and somewhat woolly with divers branches whereon grow upon long Foot-stalkes many broad Leaves divided into five seven or Nine parts or smaller Leaves equally standing round about as it were in a Circle of a whitish green colour on the upper side and more woolly underneath the Flowers stand many together at severall Joynts both of the greater stalk and the branches like unto Beanes and of a white colour in some places and in others of a very bleak blew tending to white after the flowers are past there come in their places long broad and flat rough Cods wherein are contained round and flat seed yellowish on the inside and covered with a rough white skin and very bitter in tast the roots are not very great but full of small fibres whereby it fasteneth it self strongly in the ground yet perisheth every year as all the rest of these kinds do which differ little from this but onely in the colour of their Flowers for which they are cheifely desired The Places and Time All the sorts above named do grow in the Gardens of those that are curious Lovers of these delights here in England but the first came from Greece where it was anciently cherished for food the Great blew Lupine from Caramania beyond Persia the lesser blew and the yellow sort from Spaine They flower in June and July and their seed is ripe quickly after The Temperature Lupines by reason of their bitternesse do open digest dissolve and cleanse but being steeped some dayes in water they lose their bitterneâ—â—e The Signature and Vertues The Lupine is said by Crollius to have the Signature of the Spleen and therefore the decoction therefore is profitable for those that are Splenetick to which may also be added Rue and Pepper that it may be the pleasanter and more effectuall The said Decoction helpeth to kill and expell all manner of Wormes if it be drunk in a Morning fasting and so doth the Meale hereof taken with Honey or with Water and Vinegar or tempered with an Oxe gall and laid to the navell whilst the party is fasting Though taken often and without preparation they breed grosse and rude humours being hard of digestion and slow in passing thorow the belly yet being steeped and afterwards dryed beaten and taken with some Vineâ— as they cleanse the Stomack help digestion and provoke Appetite
because I find not any Greek or Latin Author that treates of it being unknown to all the transmarine Doctors before Lobel came to us who called it Percepier Anglorum which first word Percepier is derived from Percepierre signifying in French as much as Lâ—thon-tribon in Greek Saxifraga Petrifindula an obsolete word and Câ—lculum frangens in Latine which is Pierce-stone or Break-stone in English and Anglorum is added because it is thought to be peculiar to our Country Some call it Parsley-Pert and deâ—ive it from Pâ—tra but it is more properly Parsly Break-stone becauâ—e of its eminent â—aculties to that purpose Though there be but one sort hereof which might have been placed amongst the other Knot-grasse whereof it is a kind yet because it is somwhat different and is peculiar to our Country I have given it a Chapter by it selfe The Form Break-stone Parsly groweth with many Leaves spread upon the ground each standing upon a small long foot-stalke and being as broad as the naiâ—e of a mans finger or thumb very much jagged on the edges which maketh it to seeme somewhat like unto a Parsly leafe whereof came the name but of an overworn or dusky greene colour from amongst which there rise up weake and slender stalkeâ— about two or three fingers long set full of the like Leaves but smaller up to the tops that almost no part of the stalke can be seene amongst these Leaves come forth very small greenish yellow flowers scarce to be discerned where afterwards groweth the seed as small as that of the Knot-grasse The root is very small and threddy abiding divers yeares if it grow in a place that is liketh The Places and Time Parsly-pert groweth in those fields that are plowed up for Corne both at the same time with the Corne and also when they are fallow in most Countryes of this Land that ever I came into though Gerard and Parkinson make as if it were a Plant growing in few places It is to be found all the Spring Summer and Harvest even from April to the end of October yet it must be in severall places for that which groweth in the open and Sunny places will flourish first but that which is shadowed will continue longest The Temperature It is as I conceive of the same Temperature with Knot-grasse The Vertues Parsly Break-stone hath not its name for nothing for it is found to be a singular remedy to provoke Urine when it is stopped wholly or passeth away by drops with paine or unsensibly without pain expelleth store of Gravel in those that breed it and the stone also in the Reines or Kidneyes in washing it down by the abundant passage of the Urine and helpeth also to expell it out of the Bladder if it be not grown too great for the passages and if it be it is very probable that the abundance of Urine brought down into the Bladder by the Vertue of it even whilst it abideth there will work so much upon the stone therein confirmed and grown great that it will wast by degrees by causing it to be avoided in Gravell with the Urine And that it may performe these operations with the better successe you may take of the juice of the herb about three Ounces and mix it with so much White Wine as is fit to make a Posset the drink whereof taken in a pretty quantity morning and evening to which you may if you please adde Mother of time and some Camomile which is a good way Or you may boile the Herbs aforesaid in Wine or if that cannot be had in Water and drink it but I hope you will have the wit to streine it first The powder also of the dryed herb to the quantity of a dramme or lesse in White-Wine or in other drink where Wine is wanting taken first and last for divers dayes and the distilled Water drunk with a little Sugar in the same manner worketh the forementioned effects and so doth this Composition which came originally from a poore Country man who with good successe ministred it to divers sorts of people Take of the dryed herb of Parsly-pert and Mous-eare Bay-berries Turmarick and Cloves the seed of the Burdock the seed of Hep or the Bryar berries and the seeds of Fenugreek of each one Ounce of the Stone in an Oxes Gall twenty foure graines weight let all these be beaten into fine Powder and kept in a dry box or pot to use upon occasion whereof the quantity to be taken at a time is from halfe a dram to a dram as the age and necessity of the patient shall require There be divers who conceiving themselves inclined to the stone eat it familiarly as a Sallet Herb and pickle it up also like Sampire to eat in Winter when the greene herb cannot be gotten CHAP. CCXXIII. Of Saxifrage The Names IT is called in Latine Saxifraga or Saxifragia for to the Greek Writers it was altogether unknown as farre as we can gather they having left no name for it from its efficacy in breaking the Stone in England Saxifrage and Breakstone So much for the names in generall 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 there being 〈◊〉 that do it also though not so effectually I shall speak of them more particularly in the kindes The Kinds Because the best Saxifrage that is growes in England I shall trouble you with no forreine sorts we having nine or ten sorts of our own which for their Vertues not for their formes I shall put together 1. English Saxifrage so called because it groweth more plentifully in England then in any other Country 2. Mr. Goodrers Marsh-Saxifrage so called because he first discovered it in a marshy place 3. Lobels West-Country Saxifrage because Lâ—bâ—l found it in the Westerne parts of this Land 4. White Saxifrage so called from the colour of the flowers to distinguish it from the former 5. Golden Saxifrage from the Golden colour of the Leaves 6. The greater Burnet Saxifrage so called because it hath Leaves somwhat like Burner 7. The middle Burnet Saxifrage 8. The lesser Burnet Saxifrage 9. Saxâ—frage with Chickweed Leaves The Forme English Saxifrage White Saxifrage Golden Saxifrage and burnet Saxifrage be of so different Formes that it will be necessary that I describe them one aâ—ter another English or Medow Saxifrage which is known to divers by the name of Medow Parsly groweth with many very green winged Leaves somwhat like unto those of Fenneâ— but thicker and broader so like unto Medow Hart-wort of Mompelier that it made Parkinson joyne it next thereunto from amongst the said Leaves riâ—e up divers creâ—ed stalkes of a Cubit high having thereupon divers smaller stalkes of winged Leaves also finely cut but somwhat harsh to the feeling and bearing at the top spoky rundells or umbells beâ—et with white flowers tending a little to yellow which give place unto seeds like unto the Common Fennell â—eed both for forme and greatnesse but of a browner colour and small tast The root is thick black without
also to provoke Urine and Womens Courses They are used also to provoke Appetite ease the paines of the belly and to help the bitâ—ng of a mad Dog or other venemous Creatures especially if it be mixed with a little Honey and Rue The water wherein sliced Onions have been steeped all night killeth the wormes in Children Being rosted under the Embers and eaten with Honey and Sugar and Oile they help an old Cough by cutting the tough Phlegme and causing it easily to be Spit forth It is counted by many a good preservatiue against infection to take Onions fasting with bread and Salt but I dare not subscribe to their Opinion because they do rather draw then expeâ—l Corruption and therefore their externall use seemeth to be better especially if a great Onyon being made hollow and the place filled up with good Treakle be roasted well under the Embers and after the taking away of the outermost skin be beaten together and applyed to any Plague sore or putrid Ulcer for so it is likely to be a Soveraigne Remedy Being sliced and dipped in the juyce of Sorrell and given to one that is sick of a Tertian Agne to eat it taketh away the fit in once or twice so taking them The continued use especially of the seed thereof increaseth the naturall seed and stirreth upbodily lust The juyce â—nuffed up into the Nostrills purgeth the Head and helpeth the Lethargy and is good also for scalding or burning by fire Water or Gunpowder and being used with Vinegar it taketh away all blemishes Spots and marks in the skin and dropped into the Eares easeth the paines and noise in them Applyed also with Figs beaten together with them it helpeth to ripen and break Iâ—postumes and other Sores especially being first rosted in Embers stamped with Salt Rue and Honey and so they are good for the biting of a Mad Dog being laid thereunto The luyce of Onions mixed with the decoction of Pennyroyall and a Cloath wet therein and applyed easeth the Gout The juyce mixed with Honey and a bald Head annoâ—nted therewith causeth the haire to grow again They provoke the Hemorrhoâ—des or Pils being laid unto them either by themselves or stamped with Vinegar They helpe Kibes being rosted and applyed with Butter or Hâ—gs-grease To tender and delicate Bodies young men and cholerick persons the too often or immoderate use is many times hurtful especially if they be raw for they breed ill humors in the Stomack in flame the blood increase thirst cause drousinesse and the headach hurt the sight and dull and disturbe the memory and understanding by their sharpnesse and windinesse yet unto the Bodies of labouring Men who receive some benefit by earning their bread with the sweat of their browes they are seldom offensive so true is that of the Poet Labor omnia vincit Improbus the humors that they breed in others being in them spent by their hard Labour CHAP. CCXXVII Of Winter Cherries The Names IT may be called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 for it is a kind of Solanum nay in Latine it is called Solanum Halicacabum and Vesicatorium by Pliny either of the Bladder wherein the Berry groweth or of the Vertues against the diseases of the Bladder and Stone The Arabians call it Alkakengi which name the Shops retaine Brunfelsius calleth it his Saxifraga quarta terming it Rubra for which Epithet there is more colour then for Filipendula that it should be so called It is called Winter Cherry in English because it flourisheth in the Winter and the fruit is like a Cherry The Forme I find but three sorts of Winter-Cherryes that which is called Halicacabum Petegrinum or the Black Winter-Cherry perishing at the very first approach of Winter and therefore and for other reasons ought not to be so called 1. The Ordinary Winter-Cherry 2. Virginian Winter Cherries 3. Upright Indian Winter-Cherries The Forme The Winter-Cherry sendeth forth a stalke which groweth to be a Cubit or two foot high whereupon are set many broad and long greene Leaves somwhat like unto the Leaves of Night-shade whereof it seemeth to be a kind as I said before but larger at the joynts whereof come forth whitish flowers made of five Leaves a peece which after turne into greene berries inclosed with thin skins or bladders which change to be reddish when they grow ripe the berry being likewise reddish and as large as a Cherry wherein are contained many flat and yellowish seeds lying within the Pulpe The root runneth or creepeth in the ground somtimes as big as ones little finger shooting forth at severall Joynts in severall places whereby it quickly overspreadeth a great compasse of ground The Places and Time Though the first be only to be found in Gardens or in other places whither it hath beene cast forth from thence here in England yet in some Countryes it groweth naturally by the hedg sides in moist and shadowy places the second came from Virginia the last groweth also in the West Indies They flower in August and are fittest to be gathered in October yet some of them continue longer and being strung up they may be kept all the yeare to be used upon occasion The Temperature VVinter Cherries are thought to be cold and dry and of subtill parts The fruit Openeth but the Leaves do only coole and therefore are good in inflammations The Vertues and Signature Having given you severall Plants that had the Signature of the Stone I come in the laâ—t place to shew you one or two that have the Signature both of the stone and bladder which the VVinter Cherry doth very much reâ—emble and is therefore of great use by opening the Uritory parts and drawing down the Urine to provoâ—e it to be avoided plentifully when it is stopped and is good also to expell the Stone and Bladder out of the Reines Kidneys and Bladder helping to dissolve the Stone and avoiding it by greet or Gravell sent forth in the Urine it helpeth much also to clense inward Impostumes or Ulcers in the Reines or Bladder or in those that avoid a bloody or foule Urine two or three handfulls of the berries being bruised and put into two or three Gallons of new Wine or Ale assoone as it is tunned up there to continue till the Wine or Ale be sit to be drunk but the decoction of the Berries in Wine or Water is the most usuall way to be taken yet the powder of them taken in drink or broth is held to be more effectuall It helpeth the yellow Jaundise also by opening the passages of the Gall and Liver and expelling it by Urine The diuilled Water of the Fruit or the Leaves together with them or the berries greene or dry distilled with a little Milk is effectuall for all the purposes before specified if it be drunk morning and evening with a little Sugar and in speciall against the heat and sharpnesse of the Urine The other Plant whose fruit beareth the Signature of the Stone in the
The Herb boiled in Ale or wine and given for some Mornings and Evenings together stayeth the Distillations of hot and sharp Rheums falling into the Eyes from the Head and helpeth all manner of accidents that happen to the Eyes Wart Cresses which are called in Latine Coronopus Râ—ellii and Nasturtium Verrucarium because the seed of it beareth the perfect Signature of the Warts upon a mans hand will consume and take away Warts in a short time the herb being bruised and applyed and so it stoppeth blâ—â—ding most effectually having all the Virtues which are attributed to the former CHAP. CXXXIX Of Sampire The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 or 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and sometimes 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Crithmum which is the usuall Latin name also yet Petrus Crescentius calleth it Crethmum and Rincum marinum It is also called Feniculum marinum which name the Italians and French follow as neer as their Dialect will permit in shops Creta marina especially beyond Sea In English Sampier and Sampire because it grows upon rocks and Sea Fennell because it somewhat resembles our ordinary Fennell The Kinds To this kind may be referred these four sorts 1. Ordinary Rock Sampire 2. The greater Rock Sampire 3. Thorny Sampire or Sea Parsnep 4. Golden Flowered Sampire The Forme Ordinary Rock Sampire groweth up with a tender green stalk not above halfe a yard or two foot high at the most branching forth almost from the very bottome and stored with sundry thick almost round and somewhat long Leaves of a deep green colour sometimes three together and sometimes more on a stalk being full of sap and of a pleasant hot or spicy tast at the topps of the stalkes and branches stand Umbells of white flowers after them come large seed bigger then Fennell yet somewhat alike the root is great white and long continuing many yeares and is both of a delightfull and pleasant smell and tast The Places and Time The first groweth on the Rocky Cliffes at Dover Winchelsey by Rye and about Southampton and the West and North West of England but especially in the Isle of Wight where there is so great plenty that it is gathered yet not without danger for some have ventured so farr upon the craggy precipices that they have fallen down and broken their nets ' so that it might be said they paid For their sawce and afterwards being pickled up is sent to London and other places The second groweth likewise upon Rocks that are moistened if not somtimes overflown with the Sea water The third near the Sea upon the sands between Whitstable and the Isle of Thanet by Sandwich and by the Sea near VVestchester The last in the miry Marsh in th Isle of Shepey by the way from the Kings Ferry to Sherland house Rock Sampire flourisheth in May and June and must be gathered to be kept in pickle in the beignning of August They all flower and seed in the end of July and August The Temperature Sampire is conceived to be hot and dry in the second degree and of a cleansing or scouring faculty The Vertues Of all the Sawces which are very many there is none so pleasant none so familiar and agreeable to mans body as Sampire both for digestion of Meates breaking of the Stone and voiding of Gravell in the Reines and Bladder It provoketh Urine also and Womens Courses and prevailes against the Jaundâ—se the Leaves seeds and Roots being boiled in Wine and drunk and so it openeth the Obstructions of the Liver and Spleene and all other stoppings of the intralls whatsoever from whence and from ill digestion moâ—â— of the diseases whereunto the fraile Nature of man is subject are caused so that it is great pitty that it is no more in use It is very pleasant both to the Taste and Stomack not only by the Saltnesse but by the Spicynesse in it likewise whereby it is very available to whet a dull Stomack It is eaten raw as well as boyled by those which live where it growes but the best way is to boile it in water till it be tender and then pickled up in a Barrell with a convenient Liquor made of Vinegar Water and Salt it will be fit for ones own occasions at any time or to present to a freind as usually it is or to sell CHAP. CCXL Of Fraxinella or False white Dittany The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Chamaemelium which signifies as much as Fraxina humilis or the low or dwarfe Ash because of the resemblance of its winged Leaves to those of the young Ash and therefore it is called in Latine Fraxinella being a diminutive of Fraxinus Yet some do call it Dictamus albus or Dictamnus albus and Diptamus albus to distinguish it from the Dictamnus Creticus which is a farre differing Plant. Some would have it to be Tragium of Dioscorides but besides other differences it yeeldeth no juicy Milke as Tragium is said to doe We in English do either call it Fraxinella and Bastard Dittany from the Latine Dictamus being also a corrupted word but it is more properly to be called False white Dittany then Bastard Dittany because there is another Plant to which the name of Pseudo dictamnus doth more properly belong and therefore a distinct Epithet is necessary to avoid confusion The Kindes But if this Fraxinella be called False white Dittany it must not take its denomination from the flowers for of the four sorts there is but one that hath a white Flower 1. Fraxinella with a reddish Flower 2. Fraxinella with a red Flower 3. Fraxinella with a white Flower 4. Fraxinella with an Ash coloured Flower The Form Fraxinella is a very goodly Plant rising up with divers round hard brownish stalks neere two foot high the lower parts whereof are furnished with many winged Leaves somwhat like unto Liquorice or a small young Ash-Tree consisting of seaven nine or eleaven Leaves set together which are somwhat large and long hard and rough in handling the two first of a darke but the two later of a fresher greene colour and of an unpleasant strong or resinous sent the upper parts of the stalkes are furnished with many flowers growing spike fashion at certaine distances one above another consisting of five long Leaves a peece whereof foure that stand on the two sides are somwhat bending upwards and the fift hanging down but turning up the end of the leafe a little againe having in the middle a tassell of five or six long threds that bow down with the lower Lease and turne up also the ends againe with a little freese or thrum at the end of every one after the flowers are past arise hard stiffe rough clammy husks horned or pointed at the end foure or five standing together somwhat like the seed Vessels of Columbines but greater thicker and harder wherein is contained round shining black seed greater then any Columbine seed by much the root is white large
Vulgar call Weedes and indeed there is a great deale of prettynesse in every one of them if they be narrowly observed yet divers of them are so pernicious to Corne and other things of greater use and value by their strangling qualities that the names above mentioned have not been given them without some reason CHAP. CCXLVIII Of Centory The Names IT is divided into two kinds a greater and a lesser which might be treated of in two distinct Chapters yet for their names sakes and somwhat for their qualities I shall joyne them in one though of different forms The greater is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Centaurium magnum which is generally affirmed to have received its name from Chiron the Centaure who healed himselfe herewith after that he had wounded his foot by the fall of one of Hercules's Arrowes out of his hand when he received Hercuâ—es as â—iâ—â—ueâ— and therefore of some was â—aâ—ed 〈◊〉 It hath formerly though falsely been called Rha Pont cum and uâ—â—â— insteed thereof that being a kind of Rubaâ—be The lesser is caâ—â—ed 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 in Greek Centaurium parvum and minus in Latine and Centaurea as also â—â—râ—s for the extraordinary bitternesse thereof and Febrâ—fuga of cuâ—ing Feaâ—â—â—â—â—gh that name properly belong to another Plant calâ—ed Feaveâ—ew of â—â—â—e also Multiradâ—x but why I know not Dioscorides saith it was calâ—ed Limâ—â—n and Pliny Libadâ—oâ— because it â—oveth to grow in moiâ—â— places yet in our Country it loveth to grow in dry places also It is called in English Small Century and the lesser Centory The Kinds Of these two kinds above named there be Eleaven sorts foure of the greater and seaven oâ— the lesser 1. The Common Great Centory 2. The Pyrenean gâ—eat Centory 3. The great Centory of Portugall 4. The great yellow Centory 5. The red ordinary small Centory 6. White flowered Centory 7. Small spiked Centory 8. Small yellow Centory 9. Small yellow thorough leased branched Centory 10. Small yellow unbranched Centory 11. The least yellow Centory The Form Though I have set the greatest Centory foremost for his greatnesse sake yet the lesser being thaâ— at whose Vertues I cheifely aâ—â—e take the description thereof as followeth The red ordinary small Centory groweth most commonly but with â—â—â— round and somwhat creâ—â—ed stalke not above halfe a foot high at most that eâ—er I saw branching forth at the top into many sprigs and some also from the joynts of the stalkes below At the extremities of the branches there stand as it weâ—e in an Umbell or tuâ—t divers small flowers of a pale red colour tending to a Caâ—â—tion consisting of six but usually of five small Leaves somwhat like unto those of St. Johns-wort which in the day time when the Sun shineth open themselves and towards the evening shut themselves againe after which cometh the seed in little short Huskes in for â—e like unto Wheat Cornes but much lesser The Leaves are small and somwhat round like unto those of St. Johns-wort but lesser The root is small and hard The Places and Time The first and third grow upon the Alpes and Mount Baldus the name of the second will discover its place the fourth is a naturall of Mount Baldus also the â—â—ft is found almost every where in fields pastures and woods as in a field by Oxford highway from Baubury not farre from Beechen Tree and in a place called New-paâ—â—ure in the Common fields of Adderbury East not farre from the high way side and in some of Walton grounds which are on the other side the River Charwell and other places that I could name the sixth is not so frequent the seaventh about Momâ—eâ—â—er and neere unto Padoâ— upon the Euganean Hilles the eighth in a field next Sr. Francis Carew's house in Kent at Beddington neere Croydâ—â— and in many other places where the other sorts are somtimes found and removed into the Gardens of the curious where some of the greater sorts may be also seene They do all flower about July and give their seed in August only the Portugall kind is seldom brought to flower in our Country much lesse to seed The Temperature The great Centory is hot and dry in the third degree The lesser is hot and dry in the second degree and very bitter The Vertues and Signature Both the Centories are commended for gripings in the Belly yet because the lesser it most effectuall to that purpose I shall set down the Vertues thereof The decoction thereof being made in Wine Ale or posset drink is very available in severall diseases of the Belly as the Chollick Costivenes Wormes and the like purging Phlegme and Choler and provoking Sweat It is given with very good successe to those that are perplexed with Agues for it openeth the stoppings of the Liver Gall and Spleene helping the Jaundise which the yellow sort doth by Signature for that especially purgeth Choller as the white doth Phlegme and Water and the Red cleanseth the Blood maketh thin both it and the humors by the cleansing and bitter qualities It is usefull in the Sciatica helpeth those that have the Dropsy and the green sicknesse for it bringeth down the Courses of women It helpeth also to avoid the Dead Birth and helpeth the paines of the Mother and is very effectuall in all paines of the Joynts as the Gout Cramp or Convulsions Being boiled in White Wine or Ale with Liquorice and strained and drunk Morning and Evening it openeth the Obstructions of the Chest and Lungs and a little Sugar-Candy added it is a good Remedy against Hoarsnesse and the Ptisick The decoction of the tops of the Stalkes with the Leaves and flowers which are most in use being taken inwardly and the boyled Herb that is taken forth applyed ovtwardly helpeth both the paines of the sides and hardnesse of the Spleene A dram of the powder thereof taken in Wine is a wonderfull good help against the bitting and poyson of any Venemous Creatures Being boiled in Water and drunk it provoketh Appetite cleanseth the Stomack and Breast purgeth the Back and Reines and healeth whatsoever is amisse in them The juyce of the Herb mixed with a little Honey is good to cleare the Eâ—â—s 〈◊〉 Dimnesse mists or Clouds that hinder the sight and is singular good â—or green or fresh wounds and also for old Ulcers and Sores to close up the one and to cleanse the other and perfectly cure them both although they be fistulous and hollow the green Herb especially being bruised laid to The decoction thereof being dropped into the Eares cleanseth them from wormes cleanseth â—he foule Ulcers and spreading Scabs of the Head and taketh away Freckles Spots and Markes in the skin being washed therewith The greater Centory is appropriated especially to Wounds because it helpeth those that spit blood or bleed much at the Mouth two drams at the Root in powder taken in Wine or Water Neither is the Root but the whole Plant very available also in
all sorts of wounds and Ulcers to dry sodder cleanse and heale them and should be a principall Ingredient in all Wound drinks and Injections Yet it is effectuall in many other Cases also for the Roots thereof being steeped in wine and drunk or the powder thereof given in wine is good for such as have the Dropsy or Jaundise or are troubled with the stoppings of the Liver It is also used for Ruptures Crampes and Pleurisies and for an old Cough shortnesse of breath and other diseases of the Lungs Gripings in the Belly and paines of the Mother Being scraped and put up as a Pessary it procureth womens Courses and causeth the Dead Birth to be avoided the juyce thereof used after the same manner worketh the like Effects It helpeth the Strangury and pissing by drops as also the Stone if the decoction or Powder thereof be taken and the juyce injected The decoction or juyce of the Root or a dram of the powder thereof drunk and the wound washed therewith taketh away the paine and danger of the bitings or Stingings of Venemous Creatures It helpeth to sharpen the Eye sight if it be steeped in Water and dropped into them CHAP. CCXLVIII Of Lovage The Names IT hath no Greek Name that I can meet with It is called in Latin Levisticum which is the proper and onely Latine Name thereof Ligusticum being a far different plant although some being deceived with the vicinity of the name have taken them to be both one The Kinds As the Names of Lovage are but few so the sorts are not many for of it I find but two 1. Ordinary Lovage 2. The Lovage of Germany The Forme Ordinary Lovage hath many long and great stalkes of large winged Leaves divided into many parts like Smallage but much larger of a sad green colour smooth and shining every Leafe being cut about the edges and broader forward then towards the Stalke The Stalkes that arise from thence are diverse and of different proportions according to the goodnesse or badness of the Soile wherein they grow as also to their time of continuance for though in a fat soile where it hath grown long they attaine unto the height of five or six foot yet if the ground be barren or the herb but newly set they seldome exceed three or four answerable whereunto is the bignesse of them being green and hollow set with lesser leaves then those that grow below towards the tops of these come forth other smaller branches bearing at their tops large Umbels of yellow Flowers which turne into flat brounish seed somewhat like the seed of Angelica The root groweth large both in length and thicknesse being of a brownish colour without side and white within The whole Plant smelleth strong and in tast is both hot sharp and biting The Places and Time Both the sorts are Inhabitants in the Gardens of those that love Physicall herbs especially and sometimes in the Garden of those that understand it not the first being common to divers Countryes the second proper to Germany yet neither of them are found wild in any part of Europe if they be any where else The root in continuance of time spreadeth much for it endureth long and sendeth forth every yeare new stalkes which hold the Flowers in the end of July and the seed in August The Temperature Lovage is hot and dry in the third degree and is of thin parts also The Vertues Halfe a dram of the dryed Root of Lovage in powder taken in Wine doth wonderfully warm a cold Stomach helping digestion and consuming all superfluous moisture and raw humours therein as also in the Guts and therefore it easeth all inward gripings and paines both of the Stomach and Belly as also by dissolving wind and expelling it effectually which is an utter enemy to them both and it is commended for resisting poyson and infection that may assault either of them or any other part The said Root boiled in Wine or Barly-water cleanseth the Lungs openeth the passages of the Vrine provoketh Womens Courses mightily and healeth inward Wounds Being bruised in a Mortar before it be dryed and steeped for twelve houres in faire Water then strained and two or three spoonfuls drunk first and last morning and evening asswageth any drought or great desire to drink when no ordinary liquor will do it and this it performeth by a specifick property for the Root is well known to be hot To drink the Decoction of the herbe for any sort of Ague and to help the cold paines and torments of the Body and Bowels comming of cold was not long since a known and much practised Remedy but the present Age which forgets every thing that should do it goood knowes none such as far as I can under-stand The seeds drunk in White-wine fasting either in powder or boyled therein and strained doth purge both upwards and downwards and being used in Glisters it easeth the Gout in the feet Being steeped a night in Wine or else boiled therein and drunk it provoketh the Termes and expelleth the Dead-child and likewise opens the stoppings of the Spleen but because the seeds be very strong the like weight of Annise and Fennel may be mixed with them to qualifie them And to be briefe the seeds are as effectuall to all purposes as any other part of it and worketh more powerfully in Womens diseases The distilled water of the herb helpeth the Quinsey in the Throat if the Mouth and Throat be gargled and washed therewith and helpeth the Pleurisy being drunk three or four times Being dropped into the Eyes it taketh away the rednesse and dimnesse of them It likewise taketh away the spots or freckles of the Face The Leaves bruised and fryed with a little Hogs-lard and laid to any botch or boyl will quickly break it and being boyled in water and bathed therein it provoketh Vrine expelleth the Stone and healeth the inward parts Being applyed three or four times with Rue and Honey to the Knees of those that are troubled with pain in them it is a good expedient for the removing thereof The people of Germany and of this and other Countreys also in former times used both the Root in Powder and the seed to season their Meats and Brothes and found them as effectuall to comfort and warm the Stomack but now a dayes whatsoever is not farre fetched will hardly please The green roots pickled with salt and vinegar are a good sawce for those that are troubled with wind but if they be preserved with sugar they are more acceptable to the Palate CHAP. CCXLIX Of Tansey The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Athanasia peradventure from 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 signifying sine morte or non moriens that is immortall because the yellow Flowers gathered in due time will continue very lively a long while It is also called Athanasia in Latine Tanacetum corruptly taken as Fuschius imagineth for Tagetes or Apuleius his Arthemisia Tragantes yet I
excellent expedient to kill and expell Wormes out of the Stomacks and Bellies both of children and elder persons also but the seed is accounted of greatest force notwithstanding when that cannot be had the herb may be used as aforesaid Matthiolus saith that half a dram of Lavender Cotten taken in a little of the distilled Water of Fetherfew every morning fasting for ten days together at the least is a very profitable Medicine for Women that are troubled with the Whites to stay them The Leaves drunk with Wine seven dayes helpeth the yellow Jaundise the obstructions of the Liver and Kidneys and is good against the Sciatica It is a good medicine against the poysons of all Serpents and venemous Beasts being taken in the manner aforesaid and being only strewed or burnt in such places as are frequented with Vermine it driveth them away with the smell thereof and therefore it is not altogether inconvenient to set it in Flower-pots amongst other things Clusius saith that in Spaine about Salamanca they use the decoction of the Spanish kindes to take away the Itch and Scabs in whomsoever have them and he adviseth that Caution be used in giving it yet I suppose it is rather to be bathed with then taken inwardly But it is used more frequently with us to be put amongst other hot Herbs either in Bathes Oyntments or other Medicines to help those that are bursten or troubled with Cramps or Convulsions of Sinews to provoke Urine and bring down womens courses and generally it worketh the same effects and may be applyed to all the diseases that Southernwood is appropriated and therefore I shall referre you to it to be further informed concerning its Vertues lest I justly seeme to be Tautologicall But there is an use wherein this exceeds that of Southernwood and that is to make Knots Trailes and other Compartiments in the Gardens of Noble Personages for besides its gentle aspect it abideth green all the Winter and will with cutting be kept in as even proportion as any other herb may be yet it must be removed every third year that is taken up and set again otherwise it will grow stubbed and dry CHAP. CCLI Of Carrots and Parsneps The Names IT will not be amisse to joyne these two sorts in one Chapter as I suppose because they are so agreeable in their Names Natures and Vertues The first is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and so may the second for it is as probable that the derivation thereof commeth from 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 the stalk of Briony the Roots of each growing after the same manner as that it should come from 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 the Grape to whose purplish colour when it is almost ripe one only sort hereof is resembled and therefore Dodonaeus and Fuscbius say that some in their time called them both Stapbylinus And so in Latine the word Pastinaca which cometh a Pascendâ— quia corpus alat doth agree with the one as well as the other for they are both nourishing yet differ in this because the Root of one is reddish and the other is white the one hath narrow Leaves and the other broad and therefore they are commonly divided into tenui folia latifolia Of that with narrow Leaves there is a wild sort called 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 in Greek and Daucus Daucum Daucium in Latine and Dauke in English to distinguish it from another sort of wild Carrots which is properly so called of all which I shall say somewhat in this Chapter The Kindes Though there be many sorts of Carrots and more of Dauke yet I shall onely mention five sorts of the first one of the second and two of the Parsnep which are eight in all 1 Common yellow Carrots 2 Wild Carrots 3 Wild Carrots of Naples 4 Prickly wild Carrots of Naples 5 Wild Carrots with hairy Stalkes 6 The true Dauke of Candy 7 Garden Parsnep 8 Wild Parsnep The Forme The wild Carrot which is of more use in Physick though lesse knowne then the Common sort groweth in a manner like that of the Garden but that the Leaves are whiter and rougher as the Stalkes likewise are which beare large spoky tufts of white flowers with a deep purple spot in the middle which are contracted together when the seed beginneth to grow ripe so that the middle part being hollow and low and the outward stalks rising high maketh the whole Umbel to shew like a birds nest The Root is small long and hard being also somewhat sharp and strong and therefore unfit for Meat The Places and Time The first is that which is sowne by the Gardiners in every Country in Gardens or Fields chosen out for the purpose whose soile must be loose and well manured if not new broken up The second groweth in most places of this Land as well in Pastures as by sides of fields and untilled places The third and fourth in Naples The fifth in Germany The sixth in Candy The seventh is nursed up in Gardens The last groweth in the Marshes by Rochester The first are sowen in April or sooner and will be ready for the pot about Iuly or August never seeding the first year if they be good but the seconâ— All the rest do flower and seed about the end of Summer except the Garâ—â— Parsnep whose seed is ripe about the beginning of August the second year after its sowing for if they seed the first year they are good for nothing and are called Mad Neepes by the Countrey people The Temperature The Roots of Carrots and Parsneps are temperatly hot and somewhat moist but the seeds are hot and dry almost in the third degree The Vertues The seed of every one of the before mentioned sorts are very carminative that is powerfull to expell wind and therefore they are very effectuall to ease the torments and gripings of the Belly and to cure the Collick but especially that of the true Dauke of Candy next the wild Carrots and if neither of them can be gotten the seeds of either of the other Carden sorts may be used in steed thereof either in Powder or in Decoction The seed of the true Dâ—â—cus is likewise very usefull to help the Strangury to provoke Urine and Womens courses to expell the Dead birth and to help the strangling of the Mother and remove those stitches that afflict the sides Both it and the Roots powdered drunk in Wine are very profitable for those that have receiv'd any grief or hurt by any venemous Beast whatsoever as also to resist any other venome or poyson and the Pestilence The same also put into Pultises doth ease tumours and swellings in any part and being mixed with honey it helpeth old and inveterate Coughes The seed of the wild Carrot is commended for all the purposes aforesaid as also for helping to break and expell the Stone in the Kidneys to cure the Dropsey and those whose Bellies are swollen with Wind it provoketh venery and helpeth conception The
the year to be used for any of the aforesaid purposes as often as occasion shall serve The People of Norway use their Knotberry against the Scurvey and other crude putrid and melancholy diseases wherewith they of those parts are afflicted so that we may therein admire the wonderfull wisdome and providence of God who hath ordained to grow in every Climate Remedies for those diseases whereunto it is subject CHAP. CCLXII Of Teasel The Names IT is called in Greeke 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Dipsacus from 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 sitio either by Antiphrasis because they are seldome or never dry or else because the Water that standeth in the Concavity of those Leaves that encompasse the Stalks being drunk causeth thirst It is also called from the concavous leaves that contain Water like a Basâ—n 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Lavacrum Veneris Venus Baâ—â—â— it being as I suppose a peece of Religion amo 〈…〉 the Antients to intitle those pretty things which bear any resemblâ—nc 〈…〉 any utensill for the adorning or cleansing of the body to Venus as Speculâ—m 〈…〉 ris Venus looking glasse Pecten Venerus Venus Combe as also those parts w 〈…〉 men much respect as Capillus Veneris Maidenhair and Vmbilicus Veneris V 〈…〉 Navelwort c. Yet some would have it to be Labrum Veneris because Whores are as ready to be kissed as the those hollow Leaves to receive the Raine and afterwards to card and teare the estates if not the bodies of their followers which the heads of this Teasel are apt to do and Carduus Veneris for the like reason It is also called Carduus Fullonum Fullers Thistle because Cloathworkers and Fullers use the manured kind hereof named Dâ—psacus sativus the others being called Dipsacus sylvestris and Virga Pastoris The Kindes Though Teasel have so many names yet it hath but four sorts 1 The Garden or manured Teasel 2 The wild Teasel 3 Wild Teasel with jagged Leaves 4 The Shepherds Staffe or Red. The Forme Garden Teasel sendeth forth very larg and long leaves somewhat like unto these of Lang de beef or Wild Buglesse but greater of a pale green colour somewhat rough and hard dented about the edges set on the backside of the middle rib with many short prickles from which rise up stalks of the height of three or four foot armed likewise with prickles with joynts at severall places which are encompassed with too lesser leaves so joyned together thereat that they hold the falling rain or dew in them like unto a Bason by which difference it may easily be distinguished from any other Plant as I have expressed in my Art of Simpling from between the Leaves and the Stalks of each side come forth prickly branches also every one of which beareth a long round head like a Brush that they cleanse bottles with having hooded and somewhat whitish flowers first about the middle and afterwards at the ends in the severall cels whereof being whitish when they come to perfection are contained somewhat long small and whitish round seed the middle many times is hollow and containeth severall little white Wormes like Maggots the Root is white long and somewhat great set with divers fibres thereat perishing annually but riseth plentifully from its fallen seed The Places and Time Fullers and Cloathworkers sow the first in their own Gardens and cause it to be sowne by others for their use the second groweth very frequently in most parts of this Land as well in the high-wayes where there be ditches and rilles of water as in dryer places the third in some places of Germany the last in divers places of England and particularly by Saint Albans in the Horse-way that goeth from the Abbey Parish to St. Stevens They all flower in June and July and the first will be fit to gather for the aforesaid use in the latter end of August when the seed of the other will be ripe also The Temperature Galen writeth that Teasel is drying in the second degree and hath withall some cleansing faculty The Signature and Vertues The hollowness that is in the midst of the Teasel head with the worms therein doth somewhat represent the fundament and the worms thereof and therefore the Roots being bruised and boyled in wine till they come to a consistence and then put into a brazen or copper box and afterwards spread as a salve and applyed to the fundament doth heal the chaps rifts Canckers Fistulaes thereof as Dioscorides saith who further affirmeth that it is profitable for the taking away of Wens and Warts as the water contained in the concavity of the Leaves is also said to do which is likewise commended for red eyes and spots of the Face especially under the eyes The Leavs applyed to the Fore-head Temples qualifieth the Frensy or Madnesse by the cold and dry quality which some suppose to be in them and the juyce of them put into the eares killeth the worms in them The distilled water of the Leaves is effectuall to cure the Scurvey which causeth rottennesse of the Mouth and Gums taketh away the rednesse of the eyes and such Mists as darken the sight being but dropped thereinto and helpeth creeping sores Shingles Pimples and hanging Worts in the Fundament or elsewhere The said distilled water is often used by Women to preserve their Beauty and to take away rednesse and inflammations and all other heats and discolorings The roots stamped with Danewort sodden in Wine and drunk helpeth the Dropsy and the Gout also if they be boyled in red Wine and drunk morning and evening for nine dayes together Being boyled with Plantain in rain-Rain-water and some quantity thereof drunk with Sugar morning noon and night helpeth the spitting of blood Two drams of the powder drunk in a Porringer full of Pease broth stoppeth the immoderate Flux of Womens Courses and so it doth being stamped and boyled in vinegar and applyed under the Navel and being onely stamped and applyed it is good for those wounds that are moist and hard to heal and also for the Cancker of the Yard The said powder being drunk in good Wine stoppeth all manner of Fluxes and is a remedy for the Excoriations of the belly and other parts That the small Worms found in the heads of the Teasel worn about the neck or arm in a thin Lease do cure the Ague is certainly a Fable The first as I said is onely used by them that dresse Cloath to raise the Wool thereof with the crooked Prickles of the head making it fit that their Shearers may cut it smooth and yet a Nap may be left thereon but the other sorts are as usefull in Physick especially the second CHAP. CCLXIII Of Rice The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 as Theophrastus saith in Latin also Oryza that as well as other Nations following the Greek as neer as their Dialect will permit There being but one kind hereof I shall passe to
As it hath the form tast and temperature of Cuckowpint so it hath not only the Signature which will sufficiently declare it selfe but the Vertues also according to the Signature for they are both notable for stirring up of inclinations to copulation being either well rosted under the embers or boyled Being prepared either of the said wayes and mixed with honey it doth the same and is also good for the straitnesse of the Breath dangerous Coughes and Caâ—arrhes Convulsions and Crampâ— by consuming tough and grosse humours and scowring and cleansing the inward parts The same dryed and mixed with Honey scowreth malignant and fretting Sores that are hard to cure especially mixed with the Root of Briony and taketh away all white spots and scurfe being rubbed therewith The juyce of the Root putteth away all Webs and Spots of the Eyes and is good in Eye Medicines and being dropped into the Eares with Oyl taketh away the pain of them The fresh Leaves are good for Ulcers green Wounds and venemons bitings drawing out the venome or whatsoever else hindreth the healing of them and with honey they take away the spots of the Face both which iâ— may be said to do by Signature With the Roots and Leaves are made Oyles Oyntments and Plasters excellent good to heal Ulcers Biâ—es Fistulaes Pocks Cankers fretting and consuming Sores and all such like annoyances The Fruit also cureth malignant Ulcers and consumeth the Polipus or proud flesh that sometimes groweth in the Nose The distilled water of the Leaves hath vertue against the Pâ—stilence or any pâ—stilentiall Feaver or poyson being drunk blood warm with the best Treacle or Mithridate The smell of the herb driveth away Serpents and is hurtfull for Women with Child for it will cause abortion So much for Plants that provoke Lust I shall now speak of some that abate it and first CHAP. CCLXXX Of Agnus or the Chast Tree The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Agnus which signifieth Castus Chast from the effects for both the Seeds and Leaves do preserve Chastity very much and 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Lugos quasi Vimen for its wonderfull flexibility The Latines call it Vitex and the Physitians and Apothecaries call it Agnus Castus but not without errour for Agnus and Castus signify the same the one being the Greek the other the Latine Name so that whosoever useth them both is guilty of a great Tautology we in English the Chast Tree The Kindes The Chast Tree is of two sorts 1 Narrow Leafed Chast Tree 2 The broader Leafed Chast Tree The Forme The Chast Tree riseth up higher then a Shrub yet seldome attaineth to any great height having divers branches covered with a dark colour very pleasant and easy to be bent without breaking like unto the Willow with sundâ—y large Leaves cut or divided like unto those of Hemp either into five or seven parts or Leaves each of them being long and narrow like unto Willow Leaves but smaller The Flowers do grow at the uppermost part of the branches in long spikes somewhat like unto those of Lavander growing at severall spaces up to the tops of a blush white colour after which come small round seeds of the bignesse and likenesse almost of Pepper being of a blackish gray colour and tasting somewhat hot and strong and therefore some have called it Piper agrâ—ste The Places and Time They both grow by the Water-sides and in the moister grounds of Italy and Spain and in the furthest part of France and other hot Countreys where they flower in July and their seed is ripe in August but with us where they are planted for their rarity as in Mr. John Danvers his Garden at Chelsey c. they will hardly flower The Temperature The Leaves and Seed of the Chast-Tree as Galen saith are hot and dry in the third degree and of a very thin essence or substance sharp also and binding The Vertues Not only the Seeds of Agnus used and taken in what manner soever do restrain the instigations to Venery which it must needs do by a Specifick property seeing it is of the same Temperature with Pepper which worketh contrary effects but the Leaves also are effectuall to the same purpose and therefore the Athenian Matrons in their Thesmophoria did use these Leaves as Sheeâ—s to lie upon thereby to preserve their thoughts if it were possible from impurity The said Seed only being drunk in Wine to the quantity of a dram powdred or with Penniroyall resisteth the bitings of venemous Beasts Spiders or the like and helpeth the Dropsy and those that are troubled with the Spleen it also procureth Milk in Womens Breasts provoketh their Courses and expelleth Urine The decoction of the Leaves and Seeds is very good for Women troubled with the pain of the Mother and the Inflammation of those parts and the hot fumes thereof sate over are no lesse effectuall Being applyed to the head in the manner of a Pultis it easeth the paines thereof and being mixed with Oyl and Vinegar it helpeth those that are troubled either with the Lethargy or Frensy The Leaves of Agnus and of the Vine being stamped with Butter and applyed to the swellings of the Cods and Genitories that are hard dissolveth and asswageth them and being pâ—t into Plaisters and applyed to the Reines it helpeth the Satyriasis or continâ—all standing of the Yard and so doth the seed being eaten which also dryeth up the naturall seed of Generation and therefore it must needs be an excâ—llenâ— Remedy for all such as would live chast or desire to extinguish those carnall moâ—ions to which there be few but are subject and this it is said to do it the seâ—ds be but carried about one Some mix it with Oyl and Oyntments that are made to heat mollify and heal the hardnesse or stifnesse of any meâ—bâ—r that is waxen deadish sleepy benummed or wearied it cureth also the clefts and chops of the Fundament being laid to with Water Being used with Barly meal it helpeth Imposthumes and with Niter and Vinegar it taketh away the Freckles of the Face and used with Hony it helpeth the sores in the Mouth and Throat It is of singular good use for the purposes aforesaid especially to withstand uncleannesse but the too often use thereof causeth the Head-ach yet if the Seeds be parched or fryed before they be eaten they will the lesse trouble the Head and being so prepared they dissolve the wind in the Stomack or Belly as they do when they are fresh but not so effectually CHAP. CCLXXXI Of Hempe The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Cannabiâ— which very word the Latines also use as having nâ—ne oâ— their own to exâ—resse it from 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 saith Lobel because it delights very much to grow neer watery places whether Springs â—r Breekes for so the word 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 sign fieth Some have also called it 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 because of its great
this disease chanceth not only to Men but also to Women in whom it is hard to cure Two drams of the seed beaten small being taken in the morning or after Supper either in Meade Wine or fair Water purgeth cholerick humors and therefore it helpeth the Sciatica or Hip-Goat The herb healeth burnings by fire and stayeth the bleeding of wounds the green being bruised and applyed for the first or the green or powder of the dry for the second It hath formerly been accounted and certainly is a soveraign herb to heal any wound or sore either outwardly or inwardly and therefore may be used now as heretofore it hath been in Drinks Lotions Balms Oyles and Oyntments for any sort of green wound or old Ulcers and Sores in all which the people of former Ages found it very effectuall though those of this do ignorantly contemn all those that savour either of antiquity or cheapnesse To this Head and the purposes therein contained do belong Nightshade Purslane Henbane Housleek Lettice which are cold and Rue and Calamint which are so hot that they destroy the seed but having handled them already upon other occasion I passe now to the third Head wherein we are to speake of some Plants that procure Womens Courses CHAP. CCLXXXVI Of Mugwort The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and Artemisia in Latine because as Pliny hath said so many others have beleeved that Artemisia the Queen of Caria was both the Mother and Godmother hereunto by finding out the Vertues and giving it her name yet others are of opinion that it took its name from 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Artemis that is Diana because it is chiefly applyed to Womens diseases over which Diana that is the Moon hath much influence It was commonly called Parthenis quasi Virginalis Maidenwort and Parthenium as Apuleius saith though now Feaverfew be better known by that name Some superstitious Monks and Nuns have called Zona divi Johannis St. Johns Girdle beleiving that St. John Baptist wore a Girdle hereof when he was in the Wildernesse It is also called Maâ—er Herbarum The Kinds Though Pliny and others reckon but two sorts of Mugwort there are five or six come to the knowledge of these later times 1 Common Mâ—gwort 2 Small Mugwort 3 Fine Mountain Mugwort 4 Fruitfull Mugwort 5 Virginiâ—n Mugwort 6 Sea Mugwort The Formes The common Mugwort hath divers Leaves lying on the ground very much divided and deeply dented about the edges somewhat like unto the common Wormwood but much larger of a darkish green colour on the upper side but very white and hoary underneath from amongst which come up divers stalks which are sometimes of a purplish colour seldome exceeding two foot in height except it be in extraordinary rank ground whereon grow such Leaves as those below but lesser branching forth very much towards the top whereon are set so many small pale yellowish flowers like buttons that they beâ—d again which falling away there commeâ—h small seed inclosed in small round Heads The Root is long and hard with many fibres growing thereat whereby it taketh fast hold in the ground yet the stalks and leaves die in the Winter the whole Plant is of a reasonable good scent The Places and Time The first groweth plentifully as in other Lands so in our owne by the ways and ditch sides and in divers other places The second is found in such like places but not so frequently The three next are entertained as Stranâ—ers in the Gardens of the curious The last groweth about Rye and W 〈…〉 sey 〈◊〉 aâ—d in other parts of the Sea coast They do all flower and seed in July and August or thereabouts The Temperature Mugwort is hot and dry in the second degree being somewhat of thin parts The Vertues and Signature There is no Herb so generally received or more usually proved for the curing of Womens diseases as Mugwort whether it be inwardly or outwardly used The decoction of the Leaves which are most in use being made with Water or Wine and drunk provoketh the courses bringeth away the Birth and After birth and helpeth the inflammations and stoppings of the Mother as also the stopping of Urine and is a good help against barrennesse in Women that with the red stalks having the signature of Womens Flowers and therefore it is endued with very much vertue as to provoke so to stop and correct them in case they be superfluous which a spoonfull of the Syrup performeth very excellently which is also good to retain the Matrix in its place and to help other passions thereof as Coldnesse Wind Paine c. it strengthens the Nerve opens the Pores and corrects the blood The said decoction helpeth the stoppings of the Liver and Spleen proceeding from a cold cause and is profitable for the Jaundise being boyled with Centory and taken Two or three drams of the Leaves in Powder being drunk in Wine helpeth the Sciatica and the juyce being taken helpeth the biting of a Mad Dog A decoction thereof being â—ate over doth also performe those effects which that doth which is taken inwardly though not so vigorously and so doth the juyce thereof made up with Myrrhe or the Root put up as a Pessary Being made up with Hogs grease into an Oyntment it taketh away Wens and hard knots and kernels that grow about the Neck and Throat as also to ease the pains about the Neck especially if some field Daysies be put therein The juyce of the Herb or the Herb it selâ—e being taken is a good remedy for them that have taken too great a quantity of Opium A decoction thereof made with Camomile Agrimony and Sage and the place bathed therewith warm taketh away the paines of the Sinews and Cramp and the same cannot but be a great refreshment to those whose feet are suâ—bated through sore travell if they be bathed therein yet I have scarce so much faith as to believe that the Herb only carried about one should take away all sense of wearinesse as Pliny reporteth and therefore I have put it amongst other Traditions in my former Book to which I might have added that concerning the Coales that are found at the Roots hereof upon St. Joons Eve and divers others CHAP. CCLXXXVII Of Penny-royall The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Glecon and Blecon from 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 balatus either because the heat thereof causeth Sheep and Goates to bleat when they are eating of it or rather as Pena saith from expelling thick phlegme from the Lunges It is called in Latine Pulegium and Pulejum also quod incensum pulices nâ—cat because it killeth Fleas being burned to which the Epithet Regâ—le is added to distinguish it from Pulegium montanum by which name wild Time is sometimes called It hath many English Names as Run by the ground and Lurke in Ditch because of its manner of growing Pudding-grasse because it is used in
Hog-puddings and might be in Bag-puddings also Pulial Royall and of some Organy The Kinds There be six sorts of Penny-royall 1 Common Penny-royall 2 Great Penny-royall 3 Thick or double Penny-royall 4 White flowred Penny-royall 5 French or Harts Penny-royall which I take to be the same with Upright Penny-royall 6 Round leafed Penny-royall The Forme Common Penny-royall hath many weak round stalks divided into sundry branches rather leaning or lying on the ground then standing upright whereon are set at severall joynts small roundish dark green Leaves close by which towards the tops of the branches do come forth divers rundles of small flowers of a purple and sometimes of a whitish colour I he branches being broken and thrust in the earth which is the usuall way of propagating it for I never observed nor heard whether it bear any seed or no shoot for small fibres or Roots at the joynts as it lyeth upon the ground fastening it self therein so that it quickly overspreadeth the place where it hath once taken footing especially if it be moist and shady It is of somewhat a strong but very wholesome smell The Places and Time The first groweth upon Putney Heath as also upon Barnes Common and in divers other moist and watery places of this Land but for its usefulnesse it is brought up and cherished in Gardens The second is not so frequent as the former yet it is said to grow very plentifully in Essex in divers places of the high-way betwixt London and Cholcâ—ester and in other parts thereof The third is said to be a spontaneall of our owne Land but taken notice of only by the curious The fourth groweth in Piedmont and the fift about Mompelier in France very plentifully The last grew in the Garden at Padoa but whence it came is not recorded They flower about August and sometimes later The Temperature Galen saith that Penny-royall is hot and dry in the third degree and of subtile parts rarifying or making thin warming and digesting The Vertues There is hardly a Country Lasse of sixteen years old but knows that Penny-royall boyled in Beer and drunk provoketh the courses and therefore they have recourse to it as often as occasion requires and if it be boyled in Wine it will not hurt them Neither is it only usefull for Women so long as they continue Maides but when they are married also for if so be a Child should die in the Mothers Womb as sometimes it doth and therefore is not able to make its way forth The said decoction made in Wine will not only expell it but also the after-birth Taken with Water and Vinegar mingled together it stayeth the disposition to vomit and allayeth the gnawing of the Stomack Being mixed with honey and salt it cleareth the Breast of all grosse and thick humors and openeth the passages of the Lunges helpeth Cramps purgeth melancholy humors by Stoole and being drunk with Wine it helpeth such as are stung by venemous Beasts The decoction thereof is good in the Falling Sicknesse Dropsy Jaundise Stopping of the Urine and in the Leprosy Being stamped with a like quantity of Mints and some Vinegar to it it is profitable against fainting and swooning if it be either smelled thereto or a little thereof put into the Mouth and so it helpeth the Lethargy and Falling Sicknesse And if it be carried to Sea and used with the unwholesome and stinking Water which Men are sometimes compelled to drink in their long Voyages it helpeth it much and causeth it to be the lesse hurtfull The powder of the dryed Herb or the Ashes of it being burnt strengtheneth the Gums being rubbed therewith and being boyled in Wine with Honey and Salt it helpeth the Tooth-ach Being applyed to the place that is troubled with the Gout untill it wax red it profiteth very much and so it doth those that are Splenetick or Livergrown if some salt be added thereunto It helpeth the swelling and hardnesse of the Mother if it be put in Baths for Women to sit in and so it helpeth the Itch especially if it be boyled in Water The green Herb being bruised and some Vinegar put thereto doth not only take away black and blew marks neer the eyes or in any other place but healeth foul Ulcers by causing the matter to digest and by cleansing them and so it doth any discolourings that happen to the face by fire or otherwise It helpeth the cold griefes of the joynts taking away the paines by its heat being fast bound to the place after a bathing or having been in an hot house The distilled Water is very effectuall for many of the purposes aforesaid especially for Womens diseases and to ease pains in the Bowels CHAP. CCLXXXVIII Of Southernwood The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Abrotonum 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 quòd conspectu tenerum appareat for its pretty aspect to the eye The Latines following the Greek call it also Abrotonum but more commonly Abrotanum to which they adde the Epithet Mas to distinguish it from the Abrotanum faemina which the most judicious hold to be Lavander Cotton which I have already spoken to The Kindes There be divers kinds of Southernwood here to be remembred 1 Common Southernwood 2 Great Southernwood 3 Tree Southernwood 4 Unsavoury Southernwood 5 Small sweet Southernwood 6 Field Southernwood 7 Hoary Field Southernwood The Forme Common Southernwood riseth up with divers small woody branches the tops whereof are so weak that they bend downwards again especially for some space after they be shot forth but towards the end of the year they become as woody almost as the elder Stemmes which are commonly about two foot high and in time rise to be almost as high as a man from whence do proceed many small fine and short Leaves somewhat like unto those of Fennell but not so long of a grayish or rosset green colour somewhat strong but not unpleasant to the smell and of a strong and somewhat bitter tast from the middle almost to the tops of the upper sprigges do sometimes stand small round yellow flowers hanging like little buttons which opâ—n very little and after them cometh the seed which is smaller then that of Wormwood The Root is woody having divers strings annexed thereto but growet hnot very deep The Places and Time The first hath been so long a free Denizâ—n of the Gardens that whence it had its originall Extraction is altogether forgotten The second groweth wild in some parts of Germany yet they usually vouchsafe unto it a station in their Gardens The third came originally from the Lâ—vant and is now distributed into divers places as into England Italy Germany the Low Countryes c. The fourth as is said was found in Austria Hungary and the Coasts neer adjoyning The â—ift is found only with them that are curious The sixt is an Inhabitant of the Harcynian Wood in Germany and the last hath its naturall dwelling neer Lintz in Austria Many of them
with a Syrleâ—g the other being rubbed and held to the Nostrills that the smell thereof might cause the Wombe which flyeth from whatsoever is noysome and followeth that which is sweet and pleasant to returne into its place and therefore those that are subject to this disease must avoid the smelling unto sweet things but not their contraries And taken inwardly it is commended as an Universall Medicine for the Wombe both easily safely and speedily curing â—ny disease thereof as the fits of the Mother Dislocation or falling oâ—â— thereout It cools the Womb being over-heated which is said to be a cause of hard Labour in Childe-birth It makes barren Women fruitfull cleanseth the Womb if it be foul and strengthneth it exceedingly it provokes the Termes if they be stopped stops them if they flow immoderately all this it might be said to do by Signature and therefore it were good for those that are usually troubled with distempers of this nature to have alwaies by them a Syrupâ— made of the Juyce of this herb Sugar for that is best unless it be to cleanse the Womb and then Honey is better It killeth also the Worms that breed in the Sores of Horses other Cattle But to returne to the Garden Arach It may be boyled and eaten as other Sallet herbs are and so it openeth the Belly and maketh it soluble which it doth by that nitrous quality that it hath and so it doth being used as a pot-herbe in broth The Seed being drunk with Mead or honyed Water is a remedy against the Yellow Jaundise whence it is also thought to be good to open the stoppings of the Liver and the herb eaten helpeth the heat thereof The said Seed boyled in water without any Salt having some oyle of Nuts put thereto causeth an easie Vomit and sometimes purgeth also It is said to be profitable for those that have taken Cantharides and it standeth with reason the lubricity or oylinesse of it hindering the corroding quality of them The Decoction of the Herb being drunk and the Herb it â—elâ— being applyed outwardly is an excellent Remedy for Swellings in the Throat It cooleth both Apostumes and St. Anthony's Fire and dissolveth Tumor being applyed thereto either fresh or boyled Being applyed with Nâ—â—ar and Vinegar it easeth the pains of the Gout and cureth rough and scabbed Nailes by loosening them without pain and so it doth being boyled with Honey The Sea Arach â—â— of like property with that of the Garden onely being somewhat saâ—â—ish it purgeth more and helpeth those that have the Dropsie The common wilde Araâ—â—â—es are neer as cold as the Garden sorts but more drying serving chiefly for Inflammations being applyed outwardly thereunto but Goosefoot is held to be much colder and therefore more warily to be applyed being held to be dangerous if not deadlâ— to be taken inwardly for it is certainly knowne that it hath killed 〈◊〉 CHAP. CCCX Of Laserwort and its Assa faetida The Names LAserwort is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Silphium in Latine Laser and Laserpitium in English Laserwort Magydare The Gum that issueth out of the same is called Lacer but that which is gathered from those plants that are gathered in Media and Syria is called Assa and Asa by the Arabian Physitians from whence our Apothecaries have many of their names it hath faetida added to it to distinguish it from another sort thereof which is called Assa duâ—cis which is sweeter than the other yet both of them very strong scented insomuch that the Germans call the former Teuffelzdrech that is Diaboli stercus Devils-durt or dung The Kindes Besides the Laserwort of the Ancients there be two others 1. The true Laserwort of the Ancients 2. French Laserwort 3. Alpinus his Laserwort The Forme The true Laserwort of the Ancients is said to grow with a Stalk as big as Ferula or 〈◊〉 Gyant the Leaves are like unto the common Smallage and of an unpleasant savour The Flowers grow at the tops of the Stalks tuft-fashion like Ferula or Fennell which being past there succeed broad and flat Seeds like Angelica seedâ— of a good savour and of the colour The Roots are many coming from â—ne head or chief root and are covered over with a thick and fat bark there floweth out of them being scarrified or cut a strong liquor which being dryed is very medicinable that which groweth in Cyrent and Africa is said to send forth Laser and Assa dulcis and that which groweth in Media and Syria sendeth forth Assa salida as I said before The Places and Time The first groweth not onely in the places already expressed but also in Armenia and Lybia and other Eastern Countreys the second was found about Marsellâ—â— in France the third was first taken notice of in Cardinall Bembâ—'s Garden Those that grow of them in this part of the world do flower about Midsummer The Temperature The Laserwort is said to be hot and dry in the third degree but the Assa faetida which is onely brought to us in these dayes doth somewhat exceed the Leaves and Roots in heat The Vertues Assa faetida if it be but smelled unto is very profitable for women that are troubled with the rising of the Mother and divers other diseases of the Wombe and therefore it were requisite that those that are so troubled should weare it about their Necks being sewed in Silk Linnen or some such thing It brings down the Courses of Women and expells the Secundine or After-birth being taken with Pepper and Myrrhe It is usefull in Diseases of the Breast Nerves and Braine and being taken in a Egge that is soft it helps Hoarsenesse and given with Oxymel it helpeth the Cough Jaundise and Dropsie Given with Vinegar of Squilles or Wine and Honey boyled together it helps the Falling-sicknesse Being given in Wine or angelica-Angelica-water it helpeth against Venome and Poyson of venemous Beasts where any are stung therewith It cures the Quartane Ague and Feaâ—ers of long continuance taken with Oxymel or Syrup of Vinegar it dissolveth coagulated Milk in Womens Breasts it killeth Wormes and expelleth Wind. It is used also to take away loathing for which it is effectuall as appeares by the story of one that for a tryall tasted thereof in a cold time of the yeare and after a little walking he found himselfe possessed both in his Head Armes and Body with a gentle Sweet and shortly after he found his body better disposed to his dinner than at other times before and digesting it better and for this purpose it is commonly used by the Indians as also to strengthen the weaknesse of the Stomack and to provoke to Venery If it be mingled with Rue Niter and Honey it breaketh Carbuncles and Pestilentiall Sores being therunto applyed and in the same manner it helpeth Cornes and draweth them forth Being applyed with Garlick and the White of an Egg it helps Felons and White-flawes of the Fingers It clears the Sight
a singular Remedy for the Rupture or Bursting in Children and so it doth being drunk in Wine A Decoction of the Leaves in Wine or the powder thereof being drunk in the said Liquor is affirmed to ease the griping paines of the Bowels and the Cholick passion as also of the Mother if it be injected with a Syringe for the purpose The Oyle that is made of the Apples by infusing them in Oyle Olive is effectuall not onely for inward Wounds or hurts whatsoever being drunk but for all outward Wounds that are fresh and green to sodder the Lips of them and heale them as also to dry up the moisture of old and inveterate Vlcers which hinder them from healing and so cause them to heal quickly The said Oyle is also very profitable for all pricks or hurts in the Sinewes as also for Cramps and Convulsions if the places be therewith anoynted and to heal Vlcers in the Secret parts of Man or Woman or in Womens Breasts It gives much ease likewise to Women that are in great extremity of Child-birth in taking away the pain of the Wombe and causing easie deliverance if it be applyed to the place and being anoynted upon the Bellies of those Women that are barren by reason of any superfluous humidity it causeth them to become fruitful It cureth the Piles and other paines of the Fundament if it be applyed with Lint such as the Chirurgions use It is of great force to take away either burnings by Fire or scaldings by Water it taketh away those blemishes or scarres that remain of Wounds and Hurts being healed and taketh away the paines of the stingings of Bees and Wâ—spes The Female is thought to come somewhat neer unto the Male both in temperature and vertues though the Form be somwhat different CHAP. CCCXXV Of Doves-foot or Cranes-bill The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 GeraniuÌ„ which is a general name to all the Crantsbills whose small heads with long slender beaks pointing forth do very much resemble the Head and Bill of a Crane It is called Geranium also in Latine as also Gruinalis Rostrum Gruis or Gruinum and Rostrum Ciconia for the like reason But because there be many Plants belonging to this Family therefore there be divers Epithetes added to distinguish them as Geranium Columbinum Geranium Muscatum Geranium Arvense Geranium Batrachoides sive Gratia Dei Germanorum Geranium Rupertianum c. We call them in English Doves-foot Musked Cranes-bill unsavoury Cranes-bill Crowfoot Cranes-bill Herb Robert c. The Kindes Though there be divers Cranes-bills that grow no where in England unless they be fostered in Gardens yet I shall name onely those which are spontaneous and they are eleven 1. The Common Doves-foot or Cranes-bil 2. Doves-foot with Leaves like unto the Vervain Mallow 3. Unsavoury field Cranes-bill 4. Unsavoury field Cranes-bill with white flowers 5. Crowfoot Cranes-bill 6. Red or bloody Cranes-bill 7. Creeping Cranes-bill 8. Musked Cranes-bill 9. Herb Robert 10. Great Herb Robert 11. Rock Cranes-bill The Forme The Common Doves-foot or Cranes-bill groweth with divers small round pale green Leaves cut in about the edges more than those of the Common Mallow to which they are compared though they be much lesser standing upon long reddish hairy Stalks lying in a round compass upon the ground amongst which rise up two or three reddish joynted slender weak hairy Stalks with some such like Leaves as the former but smaller and more cut in up to the tops where grow many very small bright red Flowers of five Leaves a piece after which cometh the Seed which is like to a Cranes or Storks bill whereby all that pertain to this Family are known The Root is slender with some Fibres annexed thereunto The Places and Time The first groweth very frequently in most places of this Land both in Gardens and elsewhere the second is found in some Pastuâ—es also but not so frequenâ—ly as the former the third is more commonly found in the â—orn fields than in other places where the fourth is sometimes fâ—uâ—d the fifth in moist Meadows the sixth about St. Vincentâ— Rock neer Bristâ—ll the seventh by Walâ—orth the eighth groweth also naturally in some barren High wayes though it be taken into 〈…〉 dens for its sweet smell the ninth groweth upon old Walls especially those which are capped with mudde and amongst rubbish and sometime upon Slated houses and so doth the tenth but not so commonly as the other the last groweth onely upon Stone walls and in some Quarries whence Stones are dâ—gged They do most of them flower flourish and continue the greatest part of Summer without any sensible decay The Temperature Doves foot which is the Plantâ—l most aâ—m at in this Chapter is cold and somewhat dry with some astriction or binding having some power to sodder or joyn together The Vertues and Signature It is very certaine that the Herbe and Root oâ— Doves-foot dryed beaten into fine powder and then given to the quantity of halfe a spoonful fasting and as much at night upon going to bed in Red Wine or Oâ—d Claret for the space of twenty dayes or thereabouts without intermission of a day is of wonderful efficacy to cure Ruptures of Bâ—rstings whether it be in young or old but if the Ruptures be in aged persons it will be somewhat necessary to adde thereunto the powder of â—â—ne Red â—aailes that are without Shells dryed in an Oven which fortifieth the powder of the Herb that it never faileth It hath also the reputation of being singular good for the Wind-collick and other pains of the Belly proceeding from Wind as also to expell the Sâ—one and Gravel in the Kidneys the decoction thereof being drunk or used as a Bath made thereof to sit in or to be fomented with The decoction thereof in Wine is an exceeding good Wound-drink for any to take that have either inward Wounds Hurts or Bruises both to stay the bleeding to dissolve and expel the congealed blood and to heal the parts Being made into a Salve with fit Ingredients and applyed to any outward Sores Vlcers or Fistulaes it perfectly cleanseth and healeth them and for green Wounds many do but bruise the Herb and apply it to the place wheresoever it be and it will quickly heal them the sâ—me decoâ—tion in Wine fomented to any place pained with the Gout giveth much ease it doth the same also to all Joynt-aches or paines of the Sinewes the unsavoury Field-Cranes-bill are of a neer temperature with Doves-foot and may perform all the properties found in them but it is approvedly good to expel all windynesse of the Mother and to settle it in its place when it is fallen down a dramme of the powder thereof being drunk in Wine It is also good for Wounds and Vlcers and the distilled Water thereof taketh away Bruises and black Spots The Crowfoot Cranes-bill hath the Signature of the Shank-bone and therefore the powder thereof taken in Wine is
of singular use for those that have any Bones broken The bloody Cranes-bill is found by the Signature thereof to be also effectual both in inward and outward Wounds either the decoction of the Herb or the powder of the Leaves and Roots being used as the cause shall require as also to stay all manner of Bleeding Vomiting or Fluxes either in Man or Woman Herb Robert is generally commended for the same qualities besides it is good against the Stone and is effectual in old Vlcers even in the Secret parts CHAP. CCCXXVI Of the Elme The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Ptelea in Latine Vlâ—us in English the Elme and the Elme-tree The Kindes There were but two sorts of Elmes known to the Ancients for though Pliny seem to make foure Attinia Galâ—ica Nostras and Sylvestria yet they are reducible to two for Attinia and Gallica and so likewise Nostras and Sylvestris were the same as Collumella plainly setteth down one whereof he calleth Vlmus Gallica and the other Vernacula which is Italica Theophrastus also maketh but two sorts Montiulmus seâ— Montosa Vlmus and Campestris Vlmus yet the more Modern Writers make mention of four 1. The Common Elme 2. Broad-leafed Elme or Witch-Hasel 3. Smooth-leafed Elme or Witch-Elme 4. The lesser Elme The Forme The Common Elme groweth to be a very great Tree with a Body of a very large size covered with a thick rough barke chapt or crackt in many places but that on the branches is smoother as it happeneth in the Oake Willow Wallnut and divers other trees the blossomes that appeare before the Leaves come forth are like small tassells of red threds which falling away there come up in their stead broad flat whitish Skins which are the Seed and fall away by degrees some quickly and some again continue till the Leaves are fully come forth and after the Leaves are of a sad green colour somewhat round yet pointed at the ends rough and crumpled for the most part and dented about the edges one side of the Leaf next the Stalk being longer than the other on which doe grow certain small Bladders or Blisters containing small Worms in them The Wood or Timber of it is of a dark reddish yellow colour very tough and serviceable to make Pumps and Pipes to conveigh water under-ground as also to make Beams Rafters or Transomes and many other uses where it may be alwayes moist or alwayes dry but where it is subject to all Weathers it endureth not so long as the Oak The Places and Time The first groweth very frequently in every County of this Land as the second also doth in some Countreys as much or rather more than the first the third is to be seen in divers Woods growing in Essox the fourth groweth also in England according to Master Goodyer but the place is not particularly expressed They all blossome before the Leaves come forth and the Seede is ripe not long after the Leaves are come to their full bigness The Temperature Both the Leaves and Bark of the Elme be moderately hot with an evident clearsing faculty being also of a certain clammy and glewing quality The Signature and Vertues Those Bladders or Blisters that grow upon the Leaves of the Elme are said by Crollius to have the Signature of a Rupture the Guts coming through the Rim of the Belly maketh the Cods like unto it and therefore he saith that the water contained in those Bladders is of much force to close up Burstennesses Cloathes being often wet in the water that comes forth out of these and applyed thereunto but then it must be afterwards bound with a trusse and thus much Matthiolus also affirmeth The said Water while it is fresh is very effectually used to cleanse the Skin and make it fair whether of the face or any other part The same also being put into a glass and set in the ground or else in Horse dung for the space of twenty five dayes the mouth thereof being close stopped and then the bottome set upon a lay of ordinary salt that the Feces may settle and Water become very cleaâ— is so singular and soveraign a Balsom for green Wounds that there can hardly be a better being applyed to them with soft tents The decoction of the bark of the Root fomented molifieth hard Tumors and the shrinking of the Sinâ—wes The Roots of the Elme boyled for a long time in Water and the Fat rising on the top thereof being clean scommed off and anoynted upon any place where the haire is fallen away it will cause the same to come againe very quickly The said Bark being ground with Brine or Pickle untill it come to the form of a Pultis is an excellent Remedy for the Gout if it be applyed to the pained place The Decoction of the middle Bark of the Branches being thin sliced is very good to bathe those places which have been burnt with Fire or scalded with Water The â—aid Bark being boyled in Vinegar and some Syrup of Mulberries mixed therewith is so repercussive that it causeth the Vvula or Palat that is fallen down to go up again very speedily The same Bark being infused in Cream is good for the Shingles and other such like eruptions of the Skin especially if the juyce of House leek â—e added thereunto and being boyled onely in water and the Head washed therewith it cleanseth it from all manner of Scurf and Dandraff as it doth the Leprosie from that and other parts of the Body as the green Leaves stamped with Vinegar are said to do also The Leaves hereof bruised and applyed healeth green Wounds being bound thereto with its own Bark The decoction of the Leaves Bark or Root being bathed healeth broken bones It hath been observed that Bees prosper not well where many Elmes grow for if they feed upon the Bloomings or Seed as they are apt to do it will put them into such a loosness that unless they have speedy help they wil have much ado to keep their lives There be divers other things commended for Ruptures as the Roots of Aron the Roots of Orpine Avens Wood-Betony Bistort Comfrey Calamint Birdsfoot Daisies Gentian Golden-rod Horse-taile and divers others which I have formerly and shall hereafter treat of And now I passe on to the last head which concerns the lower Region and that is about the diseases of the Privy Members and because the French Pox is a Malady which for the most part comes by the immoderate use of Venery and is communicated to some by one Act onely with another that hath them by which botches do at first grow in the Groyne though afterwards the whole frame of the Body is infected and other evil Accidents are procured therefore I shall first proceed to declare what Simples are most used in that Disease and afterwards make mention of some others that are profitable for some other distempers happening about those parts CHAP. CCCXXVII Of Guajacum The Names IT
which proceed from the heat of the Liver and therefore in such cases the Juyce or distilled Water of either sort doth much temper the heat of Choler and refresheth the Liver and other inward parts The Leaves bruised and applyed to the Cods or any other parts that are swoln and hot doth dissolve the swelling and temper the heat A Decoction made hereof with Walwort and Agrimony and the places fomented and bathed therewith warm giveth great ease to them that are troubled with the Palsy Sciatica or other Gout The same also disperseth dissolveth the Knots and Kernels that grow in the Flesh belonging to any part of the Body the bruises hurts that come of falls blows The Juyce Decoction or distilled Water is drunk to very good purpose against the Rupture or any inward Burstings The juyce of them or the distilled water dropped into the Eyes cleareth them and taketh away the watering of them The little Daisyes when the greater cannot so well be gotten may be used with good successe for all the purposes aforesaid as also to help Agues the decoction of them in Wine or Water being drunk It is said that the Roots hereof being boyled in Milk and given to little Puppies will not suffer them to grow great CHAP. CCCXL Of Speedwell The Names IT must be divided into two sorts viz. Male and Female before I can give you the names thereof The Greek name of the Male is unknown if ever it had any but in Latine it is called Veronica mas and Bâ—tonica Pauli in English Speedwell and Pauls Betony and of some Fluellen yet that name is thought to belong more properly to the Female kind which is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Elatine in Latine Veronica famina because a Shentleman of Wales whose Nose was so neer eating off by the French Pox that the Doctors gave order to cut it off being cured by the use of this Herb onely to honour the Herb for saving her Nose whole gave it one of her own Country names Lluellin or Fluellin it being before called Female Speedwell which name it retaineth also The Kindes Of the Male and Female Speedwel there be eight sorts 1. The Common Speedwell 2. Speedwel with white Flowers 3. Great Speedwel or Fluellin 4. Little Fluellin or smooth Fluellin 5. The smallest Fluellin 6. Female Fluellin or Speedwel 7. Cornered Fluellin with blew Flowers 8. Sharp-pointed Fluellin The Forme The Common Speedwell hath divers soft Leaves about the breadth of a two-pence extending themselves in length also but not very much of a hoary green colour a little dented about the edges and somewhat hoary also set by couples at the joynts of the hairy brownish Salks which lean down to the ground never standing upright but shooting forth roots as they lye upon the ground at divers joynts much after the same manner that Nummularia or Moneywort doth the Flowers grow one above another at the tops being of a blewish purple colour and sometimes though seldome white after which come small flat husks wherein the Seed which is small and blackish is contained the Root is composed of very many Fibres The Places and Time All these Plants which I have named are said to grow within the Dominions of England those which are Outlandish being omitted The first groweth in divers Countreys of this Land upon dry Banks and Wood-sides and other places where the ground is sandy and particularly in Prey-wood by St. Albans very plentifully where there be a great many good Simples besides the third was found upon St. Vincents Rock neer Bristoll by Mr. Goodyer the fifth in a Field neer unto Barâ— Elmes in Surrey the other three grow in divers Corn-fields about Southfleet in Kent abundantly as also about Buckworth Hamerton and Richwersworth in Huntingdon-shire and in divers other places They flower in June and July and their Seed is ripe in August that of the Female kind withering presently after The Temperature The Male Speedwell is temperatly hot and dry the bitternesse thereof shewing so much The Female though it be bitter is held to be cooling yet no lesse drying than the former The Vertues Both the Male and the Female Speedwell are Wound-herbs of very good note The Male is singular to heale all fresh Wounds and Cuts in the Flesh speedily closing the Lips of them together and not suffering them to gather corruption and Salve being made therewith as also with Wax Oyl and Turpentine and applyed outwardly and the decoction of it in Wine taken inwardly and so it is no lesse effectual for spreading Tetters or for foul or old fretting or running Sores or Vlcers that have been of long continuance and therefore the harder to cure It stayeth the bleeding of Wounds or other Fluxes of Blood in any other part and dissolveth all tumors and swellings especially those of the Neck It is also held to be a special Remedy for the Plague and all pestilentiall Feavers and infectious Diseases for it expelleth the venome and poyson from the Heart and afterwards strengtheneth it and maketh it able to resist all noysome vapours if a Dramme or two of the herb in powder be given with a dramme of good Treacle in a small draught of Wine and the party be laid to sweat and so doth the decoction thereof in Wine or the distilled Water thereof given in some Wine It helpeth the Memory easeth all swimmings turnings and other paines of the Head and maketh Barren Women become fruitful as it is said It cleanseth the blood from corruption and therefore it helpeth the Leprosie as no worse than a French King making tryall thereof found to be true as it is reported The decoction of the Herb in water or the powder thereof being dry and given in its own distilled water is singular good in all manner of Coughs and diseases of the Breast and Lungs and it hath the same operation upon Sheep and therefore Sheepherds make use of it by adding a little Salt thereto It openeth the obstructions of the Liver and Spleen helpeth the yellow Jaundise cleanseth the exulcerations of the Reines and Bladder and also of the Mother and of inward and outward Wounds being inwardly and outwardly used for the Spleen and Wounds but inwardly onely for the rest It provoketh Vrine and helpeth thereby to break the Stone and is very profitable for the Back and Reins The distilled water of the Herb onely or after it hath been steeped in Wine twelve hours doth wonderfully help in the Plague Consumption Cough and all other the diseases before-mentioned as also to wash Wounds Sores therewith the same doth wonderfully help all Itches Scabs Scurf Tetters Morphew and all discolourings of the Skin as Freckles Spots and Scarrs a little Coperas being dissolved therein and bathed therewith the said Water defendeth Garments from Moths a little Allom being dissolved therein and sprinkled upon them The Leaves of the Female Speedwell or Fluellin being bruised and applyed with Barly Meale
helpeth also to cleanse all the deformities or discolourings of the skin and the Freckles and spots thereof as well fresh as dry The Juyce mingled with Vinegar helpeth the falling down of the Fundament if it be anointed therewith The Juyce of Sow-bread and the Juyce of Plantane of each a like quantity mixed together and Aloes Myrth and Olibanum added thereto stoppeth the bleeding of the Nose if it be applyed to the Nostrils and fore-head And thus I have done with Plants that are appropriated to the Nose for the Polypus and the stopping of blood CHAP. XLI Of Medlars The Names THe Mouth challengeth the next place and it is fit that that part should especially be regarded without which others could not subsist And because Medlars are found to be helpful to many distempers thereof I begin with that It is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 in Latine Mespilus and the fruit 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Mespilum Dioscorides affirmeth that this Medlar-Tree is called 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and so doth Galen and of divers Sicanion The fruit of the Neapolitan kind is called Tricoccos of the three grains or stones that it hath The Tree is called in English the Medlar or Openarse-Tree and the fruit Medlars and Open-arses The Kinds Five sorts hereof are reckoned up 1. The great manured Medlar 2. The ordinary or small Medlar 3. The common Italian Medlar 4. The great white Medlar 5. The Medlar of Naples The Forme The great Medlar-tree groweth near to the bigness of the Quince-tree spreading forth branches of a reasonable size with longer and narrower Leaves then either the Apple or Quince and not dented about the edges At the end of the sprigs stand the Flowers made of fair white great broad pointed Leaves nicked in the middle with some white threds also after which commeth the fruit of a brownish green colour being ripe being a Crown as it were on the top which were the five green Leaves which being rubbed of or fallen away the head of the fruit is seen to be somewhat hollow The fruit is very harsh before it be mellowed and hath usually five hard Kernells within it The Places and Time Three of these sorts grow with us here in England the two first do grow in Orchards and sometimes in hedges amongst Bryars and Brambles and the last with some few lovers of rarities The other two have scarcely been seen in this Countrey They flower in May for the most part but the fruit is not ripe till September or October after which they must lie till they be as it were rotten before they be fit to be eaten The Temperature The Medlars are cold dry and astringent the Leaves are of the same nature The Signature and Vertues Suppose that place to be a mouth which some call by another name as it well may be and then we may appropriate it to the mouth by Signature However the mouth is not only gratified by its pleasant tast being mellow and ordered with Honey or Sugar but the decoction of them is good to gargle and wash the mouth throat and teeth when there is any defluxion of blood or humours to stay them which otherwise might cause pains and swellings to bind those distillations and to ease the pains The same also serveth well both to drink and to bath the stomach warm that is given to loathing casting or vomiting by sortifying digestion and preserving the humours from putrefaction but if a Pultis or Plaster be made with dryed Medlars beaten and mixed with the juyce of Red Roses whereunto a few Cloves and Nutmegs may be added and a little red Corall also and applyed to the stomach it will work more effectually The decoction aforesaid serveth also for a good bath for Women to sit in or oveâ— that have their Courses come down too abundantly or for the Piles when they bleed too much The dâ—yed Leaves in Powder strewed on bleeding or fresh wounds restraineth the blood and healeth up the wound quickly both leaves and fruit are of singular good use to bind and to strengthen whatsoever hath need of those qualities The stones or Kernels bruised to Powder and drunk in Liquor especially wherein some Parsley Roots have been steeped all night or a little boyled do mightily drive out stones and gravel from the Kidneys and that by Signature Besides these effects the mellowed fruit is often served amongst other sorts of fruit to the Table and eaten with pleasure by those who have no need of Physick but worketh in Women with Child both to please the tast as in others and to stay their longings after unusuall meats c. as also very effectuall for them that are apt to miscarry and make them joyful Mothers That of Naples is the more delicate and is also accounted more effectual for the purposes aforesaid CHAP. XLII Of the Mulberry Tree The Names THe tree is named in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Morea and Sycaminus in Latine Morus à Morâ from its slownesse to put forth its Leaves for of all trees it buddeth last which it seldom doth before May the cold weather being past and therefore the old Writers were wont to call it the wisest tree It is called in shops Morus celsa quasi excelsa as a distinction between it and the Bramble Cubus whose Berries are also called Mora but bâ—â—i is added to know them by The Kinds Parkinson hath but three sorts hereof 1. The common black Mulberry tree 2. The white Mulberry tree 3. The Virginian Mulberry tree Besides which as I have been informed there is a wild kind which putteth out leaves somewhat like the former and about the same time and hath fruit not much unlike but it never bringeth it to perfection The Form The Common black Mulberry tree groweth very great and tall the body and the greater arms being covered with a thick rugged bark the younger boughs and branches being smoother whereon are broad roundish leaves set pointed at the end and dented about the edges like Mint leaves but that they are far bigger and smoother The bloomings or flowers are downy like Catkins after which immediately followeth the fruit made of many grains set together of a pale green colour at first then red when they are harsh and sowre but afterwards black when they are full ripe being full of a sweetish Juyce which will die the fingers and mouths of them that gather and eat them wherein ly divers small seeds the root groweth not deep but spreadeth far being of a yellowish colour The Places and Time The two former sorts are nourished up in woods or great Orchards in the Levant or Eastern countries to nourish their silk Worms where they keep them in abundance and may peradventure be natural in some of these places they are plentiful nursed up in Italy for the same purpose and might have been very numerous here in England if the Letters of King James
with the Gout or Sciatica doth give a great deal of ease The green or dry Leaves boyled in Beer or put therein upon the Tunning up maketh it more wholsom and giveth thereunto a most excellent relish The decoction taken helpeth inward bruises congealed blood strengtheneth the stomack is effectuall for the Suffocation of the Muther The root taken dry or drunk in any Liquor will abate the rage of Lust in young persons The root being used green helpeth such as be Short-winded and those that are troubled with stuffings in their Stomach The Wild Angelica is not so effectuall as the Garden although it may be used for all the purposes aforesaid The root of the garden Angelica is a better substitute in Theriaca Andromachi or Venice Treacle and Mithridate then many others that have been used therein CHAP. CXIX Of Saffron The Names IT is called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 in Latin Crocus and Crocum which are the Names used in the shops of Apothecaries in English Saffron The Poets say it was called Crocus from a young man of that name who pining away for the love of Smilax was turned into this Flower Ovid testifying as much in the verse following Et Crocum in parvos versum cum Smilace flores It may not unfitly be called Filius ante patrem or the Father before the Son Because it first putteth forth the Flowers and then the Leaves The Kinds There being but one kind of the true manured Saffron I shall put down five of the more Common wild sorts 1. Wild Saffron flowring early with an Ash-coloured streaked flower 2. Wild yellow Spring Saffron 3. Broad leaved Wild-Spring Saffron with a Purple flower 4. Autumne Wild Saffron with white Flowers 5. Small Wild Saffron The Form The manured true Saffron hath its Flower first rising out of the ground nakedly without any Leaves shortly after which riseth up its long small grassy Leaves seldom bearing Flower and Leaves at once the root is small round and Bulbous The Flower consisteth of six small blew Leaves tending to Purple having in the middle many small yellow strings or threds amongst which are two or three or more thick fat Chives of a fiery colour somewhat reddish of a strong smell when they be dryed but being newly gathered and but rubbed upon ones hand they will make it very yellow The Places and Times Fuchsius saith that heretofore the best Saffron grew upon the Mountaine Corycus in Cicilia and the next to that upon Olympus a Mountaine in Lycia but since the profit that ariseth from this commodity hath been discovered it hath beene planted in Germany and likewise in England in divers places but especially in Cambrigeshire about Walden which is therefore called Saffron-VValden where there be divers feilds full of it It beginneth to Flower in September and presently after the Leaves Spring up and remaine green all the Winter-long dying againe in April when it commonly putteth forth another Crop of Flowers which must be gathered assoon as it is blown or else the Chives in the middle which are the Commodity will perish so that it is allowed to be gathered on the Sabbath day by that strict Sabbatarian Mr. Greenham in his Treatise on that subject because it is conceived that God who hath made the Saffron so to Flower would not that a thing so usefull for mans health should be lost for want of gathering This information I had from my learned friend Mr. Hudson Minister of Putney the place of my abode at the writing hereof The Wild Sorts were brought some out of Italy and some out of Spaine and are growing in divers of our London Gardens they Flower for the most part in Jannuary and February but that with Flowers groweth upon certaine craggy Rocks in Portugall not far from the Sea side which hath been brought over into England also and flowreth in September The Temperature Saffron is a little astringent or binding but his hot quality doth so over rule in it that in the whole essence it is in the number of those herbes which are hot in the second degree and dry in the first therefore it hath also a certain force to concoct which is furthered by the small astriction that is in it as Galen saith The Vertues There is not a better Cordial amongst herbs then Saffron is for it doth much comfort the Heart and recreateth the Spirits and makes them cheerfull that use it and therefore it is called Cor hominis the Heart of man and when we see a man over merry we have a Proverb Dormivit in sacco Croci He hath slept in a bagge of Saffron It expells Venemous Vapors from the Heart and therefore is very usefull in the Plague Pestilence and small Pox strengthneth the stomack preservs the Entralls helpeth Concoction and naturall heat It is called by some Anima Pulmonum because it is very profitable for the Lungs and the Consumption thereof as also for the shortnesse of breath It is likewise very profitable for the Head Stomach Spleen Bladder Womb Animal Vital and Naturall Spirits and is usefull in cold diseases of the Braine and nerves and quickens the memory and senses It is good in the Pleurity openeth the stoppings of the Liver and â—all and therefore is usefull in the yellow Jaundise which it cureth by sigâ—◠〈…〉 e and against Melancholly provoketh Urine and Venus hastneth Child-birth procures a good colour to them that use it It is profitable in sits of the 〈◊〉 especially the Tincture thereof It is best for old persons that are phlegmatick and Melancholick and that in the Winter Season It is outwardly used against the Gout to ease the paine thereof being mixed with the Yolke of an Egge and Oyle of Roses and applyed A Cataplasme of Pulâ— is made of Saffron Milke and the crums of Bread being applyed mollifyeth Tumors and Aposthums it easeth sore Eyes and blood-shotten being used with red-Roses and the white of an Egge being mixed with red-Rose-water and Womans Milke it preserveth the Eyes from the small Pox and Measles and being made up in a stay and put under the Throat of one that hath the small-Pox keepeth them from the place which would otherwise be much more troublesome if the life not hazzarded It is used against Erysipelas or Wild-fire and Inflammations it helpeth deafenesse if it be mixed with Oyle of bitter-Almonds and put into the Eare warme or dip black wooll in some of it and put it into the Eares It killeth the Itch and is used in pultisses for the Matrix and Fundament to ease the paine thereof and also for old Swellings and Aches Too much of it causeth the Head-ach offendeth the Brain and Senses brings drowsinesse and hurts the sight it causeth a loathing of the stomack takes away the appetite and provokes laugh 〈…〉 Some write that if two or three drams thereof be taken it brings death it is not safe to give to Women with Child The weight of ten graines of